Board approves federal equitable-sharing certification for seized assets fund

Debbie Gordon, senior director of finance for the Camden County Sheriff's Office, presented the annual federal equitable-sharing agreement and certification, which documents compliance in the handling of federally forfeited cash and property that are equitably shared with participating law enforcement agencies. "This is an annual agreement certifying that the Camden County Sheriff's Office is following the guidelines as it pertains to federally forfeited cash and property which are equitably shared with participating law enforcement agencies," Gordon said.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the annual certification form, the difference between Department of Justice ("justice") funds and Department of the Treasury funds and whether the figures represented receipts or expenditures. Gordon and county finance staff explained that listed numbers summarize both receipts and expenditures as required, and the forms include a more detailed breakdown when funds are spent. The presentation noted $39,960 from the Department of Justice identified for law-enforcement equipment on the summary form. Commissioners moved to approve the certification as prepared by staff and the motion carried on voice vote.

The board recorded the item as an administrative certification; the motion approved the agreement as prepared and verified by the Sheriff's Office and county finance.