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HomeMy WebLinkAboutExhibitSOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT (September 2024) WHEREAS, the below subscribed law enforcement agencies have joined together in a multi - jurisdictional Strike Force (hereinafter referred to as the Strike Force) intended to combat illegal money laundering, drug trafficking and other drug law violations, and related criminal violations and to disrupt organizations engaging in such activity through coordinated and long-term investigative, forfeiture, and prosecution efforts; and WHEREAS, the undersigned agencies agree to utilize applicable state and federal laws to prosecute criminal, civil, forfeiture, and regulatory actions against identified violators, as appropriate; and WHEREAS, the participating agencies desire to utilize the Strike Force as the sole method of facilitating state and local money laundering investigations that are not otherwise part of a joint federally -directed effort within their respective jurisdictions; and WHEREAS, the undersigned agencies have the authority under Part 1, Chapter 23, Florida Statutes, "the Florida Mutual Aid Act," to enter into a voluntary cooperation agreement for cooperation and assistance of a routine law enforcement nature that crosses jurisdictional lines; and WHEREAS, the undersigned agencies acknowledge and recognize that they have been operating under the existing agreement and modifications thereto, that the agreement has continued in full force and effect, and express their present intent to renew and refine the original agreement and subsequent renewals thereof in order to better reflect the continued and present focus of the efforts of the agencies in this Strike Force; NOW THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows: Each of the undersigned law enforcement agencies approve, authorize, and enter into this Agreement at the request of the Miami -Dade State Attorney's Office (SAO) to implement within the jurisdictional and other limits as noted herein the Financial Crimes Strike Force for the purposes and goals indicated. Parties To This Agreement: --The City of Coral Gables Police Department, --The City of Miami Police Department --The Office of the State Attorney of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida --The Town of Golden Beach Police Department --Florida International University Police Department --The Town of Medley Police Department --The City of North Miami Police Department, --The City of Doral Police Department --The Village of Indian Creek Police Department --The City of Miami Springs Police Department, --The City of Miami Gardens Police Department --The Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida Police Department A party other than those listed on page one may, at the request of the SAO and with the approval of the Strike Force Steering Committee, enter into this Agreement as evidenced by its signing of this Agreement. Any party may cancel its participation in this Agreement upon delivery of written notice of cancellation to the Executive Director of the South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force (Strike Force Director), who shall immediately notify other participating parties of the cancellation. NATURE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE AND VOLUNTARY COOPERATION TO BE RENDERED: 1. The Strike Force is to effect dedicated and intensive investigative, preventative, and general law enforcement efforts primarily with regard to the investigation of illegal money laundering and drug trafficking operations and related crimes, and in efforts to dismantle and disrupt the organizations committing such violations. The principal goal of the Strike Force shall be the coordinated investigation of, and successful prosecution of perpetrators of such crimes, with particular emphasis on efforts designed to identify and dismantle organized criminal enterprises. Such efforts shall include, but are not limited to, undercover operations designed to detect illegal activity and to identify those involved in such activity including those directing or otherwise controlling such activity, interception of communications related to such activity as may be authorized by law, the arrest and prosecution of those involved (utilizing state and federal or other prosecutions, as appropriate); the seizure and forfeiture of assets of those engaged in such activity or otherwise supporting such activity (utilizing state and federal forfeiture options, as appropriate); the prosecution of regulatory and civil actions designed to end such criminal activity, as appropriate; and the referral of investigative leads and intelligence to such other federal, state, foreign or local law enforcement authorities as may be required and appropriate under the Strike Force's operations. In recognition that such efforts transcend jurisdiction limits, it is the intent of this voluntary cooperation agreement to assure the continued functioning of law enforcement in areas where such limits might otherwise thwart major law enforcement efforts. 2. The Parties to this Agreement are contributing personnel and resources in support of the Strike Force efforts, with the operations of the Strike Force being coordinated by the SAO and other Strike Force members. No agency will participate in the Strike Force unless it provides resource contributions and operates within the operational parameters related to Strike Force efforts as required of it by the Steering Committee or the SAO. 3. Nothing herein shall otherwise limit the jurisdiction and powers normally possessed by an employee as a member of the employee's Agency. Nothing herein shall otherwise limit the ability of participating Strike Force members to provide, as provided by or allowed by law, such assistance in any enforcement action unrelated to Strike Force operations as may be lawfully requested by a law enforcement officer having jurisdiction over any such incident, crime or matter under consideration. However, extension of jurisdiction under the authority of this Agreement shall occur only as provided below. EXTENSION OF PARTICIPANTS' JURISDICTION; COMMAND AND SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY; STEERING COMMITTEE; NOTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 1. The principal sites of Strike Force activity are Miami -Dade County, Broward County and Monroe County but Strike Force activities may occur elsewhere within the State of Florida consistent with the purpose and terms of this Agreement. As provided by Section 23.127(1), Florida Statutes, a Strike Force member engaged in an authorized Strike Force operation outside the member's jurisdiction but inside the State of Florida that is pursuant to, and consistent with, the purpose and terms of this Agreement shall have the same powers, duties, rights, privileges, and immunities under the laws of the State of Florida as if the member was performing duties inside the member's jurisdiction as provided by the "Florida Mutual Aid Act" and this Agreement. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 2 of 36 Pages 2. Whenever Strike Force activities outside of Miami -Dade County, Broward County or Monroe County have resulted in an arrest or seizure of property, the Sheriff of the County or the Chief of Police of the municipality in which such activities have occurred shall be notified of the Strike Force's actions within the sheriff's or chiefs jurisdiction. 3. Members of the Strike Force operating outside their normal jurisdictions recognize that their extra -territorial powers and authority are, unless otherwise supported by law, derived by and through this Agreement. Activities shall be considered authorized and under the authority of this Agreement when the activities have been approved and are under the overall direction of the Deputy Director, Deputy Commander or command designee assigned to the Strike Force. No extension of jurisdiction or authority is granted solely by reason of this Agreement for law enforcement activities unless they are approved and supervised as provided herein and are related to Strike Force operations, or have been encountered directly incident to an approved and supervised Strike Force operation. 4. a. A participating agency can work other money laundering investigations outside investigations handled under this agreement and through the Strike Force only upon approval by the Steering Committee. Absent such specific approval, all participating agencies agree to utilize the Strike Force as the exclusive means to engage in state or local investigations of all money laundering cases conducted by their agency personnel other than investigations conducted as part of a federally -directed joint operation. Notwithstanding this provision, an agency encountering money-laundering incidental to another investigation may initially continue its investigative efforts until such time as the Strike Force accepts the investigation or approval for the agency to work the case outside the Strike Force is granted. If the Strike Force Steering Committee declines to include a particular state or local money laundering investigation within its operations, a Strike Force participating agency will be free to independently pursue the investigation within the parameters of law. Any such independent investigation will be outside the scope of the Agreement and will not benefit from the extension of jurisdiction conferred by this agreement. All money laundering investigative efforts incidental to another investigation conducted by an agency prior to acceptance of the money laundering investigation by the Strike Force are outside the scope of this Agreement and will not benefit from the extension of jurisdiction conferred by this agreement. In the event that an agency's participation in a "federally directed joint money laundering operation" could reasonably be construed as conflicting with a Strike Force investigation, the participating agency must promptly notify the Strike Force Director and the Steering Committee. The Chair of the Strike Force will convene a Steering Committee meeting as soon practical to discuss the conflict and the appropriate resolution. b. Any Strike Force participating agency that becomes aware of an investigation in violation of the limits imposed by this clause shall immediately report it to the Chair of the Strike Force Steering Committee. The Chair shall bring the matter to the attention of the Strike Force Steering Committee as soon as practical. Violation of the commitment under this clause may result in sanctions against the violating agency, which may include, but are not limited to, permanent reduction in the offending agency's share of forfeiture proceeds obtained from Strike Force efforts or suspension or dismissal from the Strike Force. 5. The Steering Committee consists of command level representatives from the signatory agencies to this agreement. The Steering Committee shall have plenary supervisory authority over Strike Force planning and direction. The Steering Committee shall assure that the Strike Force remains dedicated to its mission and primary goal of dismantling South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 3 of 36 Pages organized money laundering organizations operating within Florida. The Strike Force Steering Committee will meet quarterly or as otherwise required to maintain an ongoing and active oversight role. The Steering Committee shall select a Chairman and Vice -Chairman from the signatory agencies. The Chairman shall serve one year. The Vice -Chairman shall assume the Chair upon the expiration of the term of the current Chairman. The Steering Committee shall select a new Vice -Chairman whenever the position becomes vacant. 6. The Strike Force Director will provide quarterly reviews to the Steering Committee and the SAO reporting Strike Force investigative, intelligence and forfeiture activity. The Steering Committee shall periodically, no less than twice yearly, assure that its meeting includes as the main agenda item a review the objectives and accomplishments of the Strike Force, a review of the success of the Strike Force in meeting its primary goal of dismantling organized money laundering organizations within Florida, and shall issue directives and cause such changes as may be necessary to assure the Strike Force efforts remain productive and focused on the Strike Force's primary missions. 7. Each participating agency shall contribute personnel and resources to the Strike Force in such numbers as are agreed to by the participating agency and the Strike Force Steering Committee. Participating agencies shall assign personnel to the Strike Force based upon their investigative experience and the operational needs of the Strike Force. Final acceptance of personnel assigned to the Strike Force shall rest with the Strike Force Director. 8. The Steering Committee shall regularly receive performance reports to review whether resource contributions of participating agencies and funding are adequate to assure Strike Force efforts are effective. The Steering Committee will also review and approve the Strike Force's annual operational budget and administrative expenses and financial status report. 9. Actual law enforcement operations of the Strike Force will be supervised and directed by sworn law enforcement officers of the Strike Force agreed upon by the Strike Force Director to serve in an overall supervisory role. The Strike Force second -in -command should be the rank of Major or the operational equivalent to that rank. No person shall serve as second -in - command who is not a full-time, certified officer with his or her employing entity. The Strike Force Director may designate a team leader for specific field operations. The team leader may be any sworn member of a signatory agency to this agreement. Each Strike Force member participating in a Strike Force operation shall follow and adhere to, and is presumed to be following and adhering to, the supervision and direction given by the designated supervisor of the operation. If at any time the Deputy Director, Deputy Commander or designated team leader determines that the Strike Force operation should be terminated, all actions related to said operation as authorized by this Agreement are to be promptly terminated in a manner assuring the safety of all involved law enforcement officers. However, Strike Force -assigned officers or agents who are within their normal territorial jurisdiction(s) may, acting unilaterally as officers or agents of their employing agency, engage in continued investigative or enforcement actions as authorized by their agency supervisor(s). Any such actions shall not be considered the operations of the Strike Force and shall not fall within the privileges and obligations of this Agreement. Nothing in this paragraph shall modify or relax the restrictions against unilateral money laundering investigations by Strike Force participating agencies as addressed in Paragraph 4 herein. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 4 of 36 Pages 10. Upon any termination of Strike Force operations, the supervisor shall document the circumstances of the termination, including whether there appears to have been an agency's unilateral continuation of investigative or enforcement activity, and the Strike Force shall retain the documentation. The Strike Force and its member agencies are not responsible for the actions of any participating agency or its officers or agents conducted after the Strike Force operation has been terminated or otherwise performed outside the scope of this Agreement. 11. The Strike Force shall maintain a listing of Strike Force personnel serving as supervisors or designated supervisors. Documentation shall be maintained by the Strike Force that will reflect the involvement of sworn members in each Strike Force operation or investigative activity and the assigned supervisor or designated leader for each such operation or activity. No member of the Strike Force shall engage in Strike Force related activities that are unauthorized, unreported or otherwise unknown to the assigned Strike Force supervisor or designated leader and which are not documented as provided herein. 12. Any officer or agent participating in Strike Force operations shall promptly report to any Strike Force supervisor any suspected unauthorized, unreported, undocumented, or unsupervised investigative or enforcement activity of Strike Force personnel. 13. Any agency head of a party to this Agreement may request that a particular agency's member of the Strike Force no longer be allowed to participate in the Strike Force. Upon receiving the request, the Strike Force Director shall temporarily suspend the member's active participation in Strike Force efforts. At its next meeting, the Steering Committee shall determine whether the request should be honored on a permanent basis. Upon receipt from the Steering Committee of a request to no longer allow a particular agency member's participation in the Strike Force, the employing Agency shall promptly terminate the member's participation in the Strike Force. Absent an objection by any other Party to this Agreement, a Party to this Agreement may otherwise add, substitute, reinstate, or replace any of its sworn or support employees participating in the Strike Force. If a Party objects to any such action, the Steering Committee shall determine whether the action may proceed or be maintained. 14. If a conflict arises between an order or direction provided by the assigned supervisor or designated leader and a Strike Force member's employing Agency's rules, standards, or policies, the conflict shall be promptly reported to the supervisor or leader when circumstances safely allow a concern to be raised. The supervisor or team leader, in conjunction with available members of the governing board as may be necessary, shall attempt to resolve the conflict in a manner to allow the Strike Force operation to continue appropriately. No officer or agent shall be required to knowingly violate the policy of his or her employing agency while participating in Strike Force operations. 15. The Parties to this Agreement may, by a written memorandum of understanding or written attachments to this Agreement, identify or further define particular guidelines, policies, or procedures to be utilized by members of the Strike Force when engaged in Strike Force operations, provided that all such guidelines, policies and procedures are consistent with Florida law and Florida or federal forfeiture guidelines and the terms of this Agreement. However, Strike Force members' jurisdiction as provided under this Agreement may not be altered by any such written attachment. In the absence of a written memoranda of understanding or attachments, the policies and procedures to be utilized by Strike Force members shall be clearly identified by the Strike Force supervisor, or if a supervisor is unavailable, by a Strike Force team leader as designated by the supervisor. Written guidelines, policies, or procedures adopted for use by the Strike Force as provided herein may not be waived or abandoned by Strike Force supervisors or participants. However, when South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 5 of 36 Pages engaged in Strike Force operations no Strike Force member will be expected or required to violate or otherwise fail to maintain the member's employing Agency's standards of conduct, or be required to fail to abide by restrictions or limitations as may be imposed by law, or the member's employing Agency's rules, standards, or policies. PROCEDURE FOR REQUESTING AND AUTHORIZING ASSISTANCE Officers assigned to Strike Force operations pursuant to this agreement shall be empowered to render enforcement assistance and take enforcement action in accordance with the law and the terms of this Agreement. Execution of this agreement and continued participation by the SAO and one or more Strike Force member agencies shall constitute a general reciprocal, continuing request for and granting of assistance between the members of the Strike Force which shall be considered authorized in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. No additional or specific formal request for assistance is required. USE AND DISTRIBUTION OF SEIZED FUNDS AND PROPERTY; STRIKE FORCE ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES: 1. The Parties to this Agreement recognize that law enforcement is the principal objective of all asset forfeiture and that, as mandated by Section 932.704(11)(a), Florida Statutes, as enacted by Chapter 95-265, Laws of Florida, the Strike Force's operations and each Party's use of property, currency, or proceeds received by reason of state forfeiture actions are to conform with "Florida's Forfeiture Guidelines" as developed and adopted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida Sheriffs Association, and the Florida Police Chiefs Association, a copy of which are incorporated herein as Attachment C. In the case of federal forfeitures, applicable federal guidelines apply. 2. All Parties recognize that they are to avoid the appearance of impropriety in the acquisition, sale, retention or transfer of any forfeited property, currency or proceeds derived from such forfeiture, and that forfeiture funds may not be used to meet normal law enforcement agency operating expenses of each Party unless otherwise provided by Florida law. 3. All participating parties acknowledge that the Strike Force has no independent spending authority and is not empowered to encumber, grant, donate, or expend funds independently. Authorizations for expenditures must be consistent with law and authority granted to participating agencies and in support of the mission of the Strike Force and in accordance with the approved budget. A participating Strike Force agency shall function as the administrative agent for Strike Force operational expenditures. The City of Coral Gables Police Department as empowered by the City of Coral Gables is currently responsible for handling the administrative and support expenses incurred by the Strike Force in its operations and is acting as the Strike Force's current administrative agent. If properly authorized by law and the party's governing body, any other party to this Agreement may be authorized by the Steering Committee to assume the role of Administrative Party. 4. Parties acknowledge that the Strike Force is not a permanent operation and could be terminated at any time. Accordingly, the Strike Force shall avoid long-term commitments via leases or rental agreements unless such agreements reasonably provide for cancellation South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 6 of 36 Pages prior to their scheduled expiration dates. The Strike Force shall endeavor to limit administrative expenses as much as reasonably possible, in order to maximize the flow of forfeiture proceeds to the individual participating agencies. Administrative expenses for which expenditure may be authorized may include, but are not limited to, expenses incurred in the storage of seized funds pending forfeiture, expenditures for rent of Strike Force facilities, rental of vehicles utilized in Strike Force investigative activity, providing phones, desks, office supplies and equipment in support of Strike Force operations, plaques and other recognition awards for exiting members, food and refreshments for Strike Force meetings and the payment of the salaries of a limited number of Strike Force administrative and operational support personnel. Use of Strike Force resources to provide "perks" or benefits beyond that which personnel assigned to the Strike Force would not otherwise be entitled or provided by the employing agency of the personnel is expressly prohibited. Use of Strike Force phones, accounts, equipment, vehicles, or other resources for other than incidental personal purposes is prohibited. 5. Administrative expenses do not include the salaries or overtime compensation, in excess of 50 hours per month, of officers, agents, analysts, or other employees of Party agencies assigned to the Strike Force, or the purchase of regular or special equipment or resources by a Party agency that may be or are utilized in support of Strike Force operations. Compensation for such costs is the sole responsibility of the employing agency, and may, if authorized by law and applicable forfeiture guidelines, be paid from forfeiture funds received by the agency. 6. Anticipated administrative expenses for an administrative agent (currently the Coral Gables Police Department) during a budget year are to be identified by the administrative agent as a Strike Force operational budget item, and are to be approved for reimbursement by the Steering Committee in the Strike Force operational budget for the fiscal year. The Steering Committee may approve all or a portion of the proposed administrative expenses. Once approved, the administrative expenses may be reimbursed to the administrative agent in the manner noted below. The administrative agent is not obligated to expend resources in administrative support of the Strike Force if the Steering Committee does not approve the expenses for reimbursement via the budget process. All Parties acknowledge that the Strike Force itself has no authority to independently authorize the expenditure of seized or forfeited funds, or to make grants from such funds to others. As a result, reimbursement to the Administrative agent (currently the Coral Gables Police Department) for its administrative expenditures shall be done by a voluntary deferral of each Party's equitable share of forfeiture funds otherwise due to it in the manner set forth below. 7. Florida and Federal forfeiture laws allow multiple agencies participating in the seizure and forfeiture of property to equitably proportion the distribution of such property upon successful conclusion of the forfeiture. Distribution of the proceeds from successful forfeiture actions shall be equitable among the Parties to this Agreement and shall take into account their relative roles in support of the efforts of the Strike Force unless an alternate distribution allocation among the Parties has been agreed to. 8. Participating agencies agree that each agency should contribute a fair share toward the annual administrative costs of the Strike Force. Such contributions will be effected by deferring portions of forfeiture proceeds an Agency would otherwise be entitled to receive to the benefit of the agency operating as administrative agent to cover the proportionate share of the administrative expenses as noted herein. Such deferrals are to fairly and appropriately reimburse, not enrich, the administrative agent agency. To reasonably address the additional expenses incurred by the administrative agent for the administrative and support expense role South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 7 of 36 Pages described herein and approved by the Steering Committee in its operational budget, the other Parties agree that their respective proportionate share in the distribution of forfeited funds will be reduced as approved by the Steering Committee in such manner and amount to effect an increase in the share of forfeitures received by the administrative agent (currently, the Coral Gables Police Department) for the extra administrative expenses so incurred. 9. All Parties have an equitable ownership in the funds seized for forfeiture and interest earned on those funds pending perfection of ownership via final order of forfeiture. However, to further address the additional expenses incurred by the Administrative agent for the administrative and support expense role described herein and approved by the Steering Committee in its operational budget, the Parties have agreed that all interest earned yearly on funds seized and pending forfeiture up to a maximum amount set by the Steering Committee at the time the yearly budget is approved shall be distributed to the Administrative agent upon final order of forfeiture in a manner consistent with this Agreement and law, with such funds to be applied to the approved administrative and support expenses. Any interest earned yearly in excess of the maximum amount set by the Steering Committee shall be included in the funds to be equitably distributed among the Parties to this Agreement and shall take into account their relative roles in support of the efforts of the Strike Force unless an alternate distribution allocation among the Parties has been agreed to. 10. The Steering Committee may approve on a case -by -case basis the adjustment of one or more distributions of forfeiture funds to Strike Force participating agencies to specifically increase a Party's share of forfeiture distribution funds for an unusual or substantial expense incurred by the Party directly associated with its participation in Strike Force activities. In order for such reimbursement to occur, the expenses must have a substantial nexus with the Strike Force's operations and mission. The Strike Force members acknowledge they have no independent authority by reason of this Agreement to disburse funds other than as authorized by law and as approved by each party's governing entity. 11. Each participating agency is solely responsible for assuring its use of distributed forfeiture funds is in compliance with state law and mandatory state and federal forfeiture guidelines. By continued participation in the Strike Force, each participating agency warrants it is operating in compliance with state law and mandatory guidelines. The Steering Committee shall assure regular training of Strike Force officers and agents as required by the State Guidelines occurs and is documented. Upon request of the SAO, a participating agency will provide documentation or certification demonstrating such compliance. Any participating agency found not to be operating within applicable forfeiture law and guidelines shall be suspended from Strike Force participation and forfeiture fund distribution until such time as the Agency demonstrates it is in compliance with law and guidelines. 12. The Parties to this Agreement acknowledge that under federal guidelines, funds derived from federal forfeitures are not to be commingled with funds derived from state forfeitures, and are to be maintained in a separate trust fund account, to be expended only in a manner as allowed by applicable federal guidelines. All Parties agree to file in a timely fashion all reports or accountings of receipts or expenditures of forfeiture funds as are required by state or federal law or applicable guidelines. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 8 of 36 Pages PROPERTY SEIZURE AND FORFEITURE CONSIDERATIONS: 1. No funds or other property seized by Strike Force operations are to be utilized by any Strike Force agency prior to successful forfeiture or until title or interest in the funds otherwise lawfully vests in one or more Strike Force agencies. Forfeiture actions based upon seizures made by the Strike Force may be pursued in either state or federal actions. Actions shall be based upon current statutory and case law, and shall be consistent with applicable state or federal forfeiture guidelines. The Parties agree that the Office of the State Attorney of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit, through its attorneys, will be primarily responsible under this Agreement for pursuing all Strike Force forfeiture actions on behalf of all of the Parties in state court in Miami -Dade County and through out the State of Florida. The Office of the United States Attorney, Southern District of Florida, will be primarily responsible for federal forfeiture actions. However, this provision shall not preclude the use of other forfeiture attorneys or personnel as needed on particular matters and as authorized by the Steering Committee and agreed to by the above -noted primary entities responsible for forfeiture litigation. 2. Any Party to this Agreement or any prosecutor handling the criminal prosecution of Strike Force cases may request copies of forfeiture complaints and pleadings filed by reason of Strike Force seizures and such copies shall be promptly provided to the requester. Forfeiture actions are to be coordinated with criminal prosecutions. If any legal dispute or concern as to the form or sufficiency of forfeiture actions or other action proposing to vest the interest of Strike Force agency(ies) in seized cash or property is raised by any of the Parties to this Agreement, an attempt to resolve the issue through informal discussion and contact shall be made. In the event any Party responsible for filing and handling a forfeiture action believes there is an insufficient basis upon which to pursue the forfeiture of particular seized cash or property, and the concerns cannot be resolved, no forfeiture action on behalf of the Strike Force is to be filed. 3. All options available under law to state and local law enforcement agencies with regard to unclaimed evidence or abandoned property, gifts and plea agreements are available to the Strike Force, provided the property under consideration otherwise qualifies under law for such consideration. 4. Pursuant to Section 932.704(7), Florida Statutes, when a claimant and the Strike Force agree to settle the forfeiture action prior to the conclusion of the forfeiture proceeding, the settlement agreement shall be reviewed, unless such review is waived by the claimant in writing, by the court or a mediator or arbitrator agreed upon by the claimant and the seizing law enforcement agency. If the claimant is unrepresented, the settlement agreement must include a provision that the claimant has freely and voluntarily agreed to enter into the settlement without benefit of counsel. A copy of the settlement agreement is to be retained in the investigative case file giving rise to the forfeiture and settlement. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 9 of 36 Pages GUIDELINES FOR MONEY PICKUPS, TRANSFERS AND SECURITY; AUDITS AND REVIEWS: 1. The Parties to this Agreement recognize that substantial sums of cash will be seized by reason of Strike Force operations, and are committed to assuring that all such seizures are done with the greatest degree of security and integrity possible. The Strike Force will utilize procedures established by written directive of the Strike Force relating to the seizure of property for forfeiture and the seizure of contraband. At no time shall a Strike Force participant seize, handle, transport or count seized funds alone. Pursuant to Section 932.704(11)(b), Florida Statutes, the determination of whether to seize currency must be made by Strike Force supervisory personnel. Such determination must be documented in a manner to indicate the supervisory personnel providing such authorization. The attorney assigned to handle Strike Force forfeitures must be notified as soon as possible. In the absence of, or unavailability of that attorney, notification shall be made to the Strike Force Director. 2. No investigative money laundering by the Strike Force or its participating agencies may occur unless it is a means to an investigative end, rather than an end in and of itself. Authorized laundering may only be conducted as part of reverse sting or as an interim step reasonably expected to lead to the seizure of drugs, illicit funds, and/or arrests of those engaged in unlawful money laundering consistent with Section 896.105, Florida Statutes. 3. The Strike Force will utilize procedures established in writing by the Strike Force relating to the handling of evidence. A copy of Strike Force Directive 1.3, relating to forfeitures and seizures, is attached as Attachment A to this Agreement. A copy of Strike Force Directive 1.4, relating to the handling of evidence, is attached as Attachment B to this Agreement. Both of these Directives currently apply to Strike Force operations. The Parties to this Agreement acknowledge in signing this Agreement that they have reviewed the Attachments. 4. The Strike Force may modify, supplement or substitute written guidelines, provided that any modification, supplementation, or substitution assures as a minimum that all non -cash property coming into the custody of Strike Force members shall be treated as evidence, utilizing standard and commonly -accepted means of securing and handling same, and that all seizures of cash shall be done with appropriate checks and balances implemented to assure that all cash seized is accounted for, and properly secured until such time as title or interest in such funds lawfully vests in the seizing agency(ies) and the Strike Force. Copies of written guidelines or directives shall be provided any Party upon request. 5. The Steering Committee will determine the type, nature and extent of audits or reviews pertaining to Strike Force efforts, to include as a minimum an audit of Strike Force finances once every two years. In addition, the SAO may at any time order a review and audit by an auditor designated by the SAO of Strike Force operations with regard to the seizure and handling of all evidence, property or cash, use and disposition of property, currency or proceeds received by any Party by reason of a forfeiture, or any other aspect of Strike Force operations. The Strike Force Director or the Steering Committee by majority vote may request at any time that such a review and audit be performed by the SAO. The Parties agree to cooperate in any such audit by allowing full access to documents, personnel and facilities necessary to perform the audit function. The Parties agree to cooperate in any federal audit of Strike Force forfeiture activities as may be required or requested by the United States government. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 10 of 36 Pages COMPLAINTS AGAINST STRIKE FORCE MEMBERS: 1. Each person assigned to the Strike Force shall promptly report any suspected criminal activity or violation of rule or policy of any other member of the Strike Force or any person with whom the Strike Force is conducting business. 2. Whenever a complaint has been lodged as a result of Strike Force efforts, a designee of the SAO shall ascertain at a minimum: The identity(ies) of the complainant(s) and an address where the complainant(s) may be contacted, the nature of the complaint any supporting evidence or facts as may be available, including the names and addresses of witnesses to that which has been complained about, the identity(ies) of the Strike Force participant(s) accused and the employing Agency(ies) of the participant(s) accused. 3. The SAO will promptly provide to each affected employing Agency the above information for administrative review and appropriate handling or disposition. Each affected employing Agency shall, upon completion of said review, promptly notify the SAO of its findings and any actions taken. 4. Upon assignment to the Strike Force, and once yearly, each person assigned to the Strike Force shall be provided notification that he or she is obliged to report any wrongdoing or impropriety by any Strike Force personnel. A local method of reporting such shall be provided, and the name, email address and phone number of the SAO Investigations Division shall also be provided as an option for making any such report, whose phone number is (305) 547-0669. INTERPLAY WITH FEDERAL AND OTHER AUTHORITIES: 1. The Parties to this Agreement recognize that the federal law enforcement authorities have requested that the efforts of the Strike Force be closely coordinated with federal authorities having interests in money laundering investigations. The Parties recognize that federal agents will, as necessary, be co -located at the Strike Force headquarters or otherwise provided access to Strike Force operations and planning. 2. International movement of funds: No direct movement of funds internationally, or transactions which are known by the Strike Force to be an interim step prior to a specifically planned, expected, or known international transfer of funds shall occur unless the federal agent(s) assigned to work with the Strike Force are provided prior notice and federal approval and participation is secured. If a federal agency has an objection to any proposed operation of the Strike Force involving international movements of money, the operation is not to proceed until the federal objections are resolved, giving federal interstate and international responsibilities and concerns appropriate deference. The Strike Force shall not directly or knowingly indirectly engage in international movements of funds without securing authorization and participation from at least one federal agency having appropriate jurisdiction. 3. Interstate movement of funds within the United States: (a) Federal notification: A federal agent with appropriate jurisdiction assigned to work with the Strike Force (normally, an HSI Agent) must receive notification of any intended interstate movement of funds prior to the actual movement of the funds. The federal agent, upon South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 11 of 36 Pages receiving notification as provided herein, shall coordinate the Strike Force's efforts with other federal law enforcement agencies and make appropriate notification of the proposed transaction(s). If a federal agency objects to a proposed interstate movement of funds, no movement shall occur until the federal objections are resolved. The date of original federal agent notification and the absence of objection shall be specifically documented on the funds transfer authorization form. In the event of exceptional circumstances that do not allow timely prior notice to the federal agent, funds may be moved interstate upon the approval of the Director of the Strike Force, or in the absence of the Director, his/her designee. The notice required by this section shall occur as soon as practicable, but in no case longer than 48 hours after the interstate movement of funds has begun. (b) Recipient or involved state notification: Strike Force interstate movements of money not otherwise involving the active participation of a federal agency shall be in coordination with law enforcement agencies in the recipient or involved other states. In operations not actively involving a federal agency, the Strike Force shall not unilaterally conduct money transfers in another state, without notifying the appropriate state, or local law enforcement agencies of the proposed activities. Nothing in this Agreement provides Strike Force members with jurisdiction beyond the geographic limits of the State of Florida. Strike Force operations are to be performed in a manner to minimize and avoid conflict with the actions of, and mission of, federal agencies and other states' law enforcement agencies. (c) Domestic security: Recognizing that money laundering is an important tool of domestic and international terrorist organizations, no transfer of funds by the Strike Force shall occur until the Strike Force has checked available law enforcement intelligence databases, including, but not limited to, DICE "In -Site" to assure there is no believed connection between the proposed transfer of funds and terrorism. If there is a reasonable belief that the funds will be utilized by a terrorist organization, no transfer shall occur. Notwithstanding this prohibition, if the transfer of funds is essential to an investigation of the terrorist organization, and will substantially assist in the detection and apprehension of terrorists, or the interference with their planned objectives, upon approval of the Steering Committee, and with the approval of the primary agency investigating the terrorist organization, a transfer may occur. POWERS, PRIVILEGES, IMMUNITIES, COSTS, LIABILITY AND RELATED ISSUES; STRIKE FORCE SUPPORT CONSIDERATIONS: Each Party engaging in any mutual cooperation and assistance pursuant to this Agreement agrees to assume its own liability and responsibility for the acts, omission, or conduct of such Party's own employees while such employees are engaged in rendering such aid, cooperation and assistance pursuant to this Agreement, subject to the provisions of Section 768.28, Florida Statutes, where applicable. All personnel assigned to the Strike Force remain ultimately accountable to their respective employing agencies. In turn, each employing agency remains responsible for such employees and assumes any liability for the actions of its employees while assigned to the Strike Force. Each agency is individually responsible for securing supplemental insurance as may be desired to cover potential losses or liabilities associated with the Strike Force operation. With regard to the rental or lease of vehicles for use by the Strike Force personnel, the participating Law Enforcement Agencies of the South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force hereby agree to the extent permitted by Law to indemnify from any liability and hold harmless the other participating Law Enforcement Agencies of the South Florida Financial South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 12 of 36 Pages Crimes Strike Force for any negligent acts or negligent omissions committed by their respective personnel while acting within the scope of their employment. Therefore, in consideration of the mutual terms and conditions contained herein, the parties agree as follows: Each participating Law Enforcement Agency of the South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force hereby agree to secure or otherwise maintain its own automobile liability insurance or maintain a self -insuring fund for the term of this Agreement in the amounts determined by each participating Law Enforcement Agency to adequately insure each participant's liability derived from the use of the leased or rental vehicles assumed herein, but in no event shall such coverage be less than the amount of statutory waiver of sovereign immunity. Each Party to this Agreement agrees to furnish necessary personnel, property, police equipment, vehicles, resources and facilities to render services to each other Party to this Agreement in order to effect the purposes of the Strike Force and agrees to bear the cost of loss or damage to its equipment, vehicles, or property so provided. Parties understand and agree that they will be responsible for their own liability and bear their own costs with regard to their property and resources, or personnel expenses incurred by reason of death, injury or incidents giving rise to liability. This provision shall not preclude, as otherwise authorized herein, the purchase of administrative support property or resources. Each Agency furnishing aid pursuant to this Agreement shall compensate its employees during the time such aid is rendered and shall defray the actual expenses of its employees while they are rendering such aid, including any amounts paid or due for compensation due to personal injury or death while such employees are engaged in rendering such aid. The privileges and immunities from liability, exemption from laws, ordinances, and rules, and all pension, insurance, relief, disability, workers' compensation, salary (including overtime compensation or compensatory time), death and other benefits that apply to the activity of an employee of an Agency when performing the employee's duties within the territorial limits of the employee's Agency shall apply to the employee to the same degree, manner, and extent while such employee acts under this Agreement. This provision shall not preclude payment by a Party of compensation (including overtime compensation) to the Party's officers, agents, analysts, or other personnel assigned to the Strike Force, if allowed by Florida or federal law and applicable state or federal guidelines, through the use of legally vested Strike Force funds if the Party has obtained the necessary approval and authorization for such payment from the Party's governing commission or (if a state agency) the Legislature. The privileges and immunities from liability, exemption from laws, ordinances, and rules, and pension, insurance, relief, disability, workers' compensation, salary, death, and other benefits that apply to the activity of an employee of an agency when performing the employee's duties within the territorial limits of the employee's agency apply to the employee to the same degree, manner, and extent while engaged in the performance of the employee's duties extraterritorially under the provisions of this Agreement. Each participating Party shall bear its own liability arising from acts undertaken under the Agreement except as may be otherwise allowed under Chapter 23, Florida Statutes, and any agreement by a participant to the contrary is void. The Administrative Agency may request purchase of optional insurance or other reasonable actions by the other Parties as a means of helping reduce the Administrative Agency's exposure to claims or liability incurred solely by reason of its role as Administrative Agency in renting automobiles or entering into contractual agreements on behalf of the Strike Force. Such requests shall be approved by the Steering Committee, but if not approved, the Administrative Agency South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 13 of 36 Pages shall not be obligated to enter into any particular rental or contractual obligation on behalf of the Strike Force. OBLIGATION TO COORDINATE WITH PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE: 1. A principal goal of this Strike Force is the successful prosecution of criminal violators. Successful prosecution requires close coordination with prosecuting authorities, both in the state and federal courts. Members of the Strike Force are obligated to coordinate their efforts in such a way as to support the efficient prosecution of cases, including, but not limited to, prompt responses to requests from prosecutors for information or assistance in handling Strike Force generated cases, and reasonable availability for pretrial conferences with prosecutors, discovery depositions, pretrial hearings and trials. Civil or administrative actions derived from Strike Force operations are likewise to receive coordinated support efforts from Strike Force members. 2. Strike Force supervisors shall monitor the efforts of Strike Force members in support of criminal prosecutions, civil actions, administrative actions and forfeiture cases. Such monitoring shall include regular contact with assigned prosecutors or attorneys pursuing actions on behalf of the Strike Force to assure the expected level of support from Strike Force members is occurring. Failure by a member of the Strike Force to support such efforts on a routine and regular basis in the manner set forth herein shall constitute grounds for suspension or removal from the Strike Force and reduction or elimination of the agency's share of forfeiture proceeds derived from Strike Force operations. PRIMARY STRIKE FORCE EFFORTS; SEMIANNUAL PROGRESS ASSESSMENT: 1. The Strike Force has as its prime mission these primary areas of activity: ✓ Money laundering investigations, including the seizure and forfeiture of funds derived from drug or other criminal activity and the investigation and prosecution of those involved in such activity; ✓ Criminal investigation and prosecution of those involved in organized drug trafficking enterprises and those involved in other drug related criminal activity, and efforts to disrupt and dismantle organizations involved in such illegal activity. 2. The Parties agree to provide sufficient and continued support and personnel resources to each of the above areas of activity, in a manner and to an extent determined and approved by the Steering Committee, or as may be requested by the SAO. 3. The Steering Committee no less than twice yearly review and evaluate the progress and success of efforts in each of the primary areas of activity. To the extent resources are available, they shall be reallocated to address observed deficiencies or to otherwise better assure the balanced success of the primary Strike Force efforts. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 14 of 36 Pages INTERPLAY OF STRIKE FORCE AGENCIES WITH FLORIDA VIOLENT CRIME AND DRUG CONTROL COUNCIL FUNDED INVESTIGATIVE EFFORTS The mission of the Florida Violent Crime and Drug Control Council includes providing matching funding of significant drug and money laundering investigations within the state. To the extent that any investigation funded by the Council develops leads related to significant money laundering affecting investigative efforts of any participating Strike Force agency, the Agency shall relate the leads to the Strike Force Steering Committee, and the Steering Committee shall determine whether the money laundering aspect of the Council - funded investigation warrants inclusion as a Strike Force investigation. COPY TO EACH PARTICIPATING STRIKE FORCE MEMBER: When this Agreement is fully executed, a copy shall be provided to each Strike Force member so that each member may be fully aware of the powers, limitations, and expectations applicable to Strike Force members and operations. TERM AND EFFECT OF AGREEMENT; OBLIGATION TO TIMELY RATIFY; MEANS OF CANCELLATION; AUTOMATIC EXTENSION; INTERIM CLARIFICATIONS OR MODIFICATIONS: 1. This Agreement is the successor agreement to the original Agreement first establishing the predecessor Strike Force, known as the Multi -Agency Money Laundering and Anti - Drug Trafficking Strike Force ("IMPACT") and all subsequent renewals thereof. It shall be effective as to the executing Parties upon execution by the SAO and at least one other participating Agency. As each additional Party executes this Agreement, it shall be effective as to the newly executing Party. Upon execution, this Agreement supersedes previous versions of the agreements. Failure by a Party to secure a timely ratification of this superseding agreement will result in said party's participation in the Strike Force being suspended until such time as the Party executes the Agreement. 2. This Agreement shall remain in full force as to all participating Parties until September 1, 2027, unless earlier canceled in writing by the SAO as to all or separate Parties, or as canceled in writing by an individual Party as related to that Party as provided herein. In order for the Strike Force to continue operations beyond September 1, 2027, this Agreement must be renewed in writing by the participating Parties. 3. The terms of this Agreement may be clarified or modified, consistent with state and federal law and guidelines, by supplemental Memoranda of Understanding signed by the participating parties. Any such Memorandum shall incorporate by reference this Agreement, and shall become a part of this Agreement by inclusion as an Exhibit hereto. All such Exhibits are to be sequentially lettered and labeled as an attachment. Master copies of the current Agreement will be maintained by the SAO, the FDLE Office of Mutual Aid Coordinator and by the Strike Force Director. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 15 of 36 Pages 4. This Agreement may be duplicated for dissemination to all Parties, and such duplicates shall be of the same force and effect as the original. Execution of this Agreement may be signified by properly signing a separate signature page, the original of which shall be returned to the attention of: Executive Director, SFFCSF 11200 NW 20th Street Suite 300 Miami, Florida 33172 Upon receipt, originals will maintained by the Strike Force Director. Any written cancellation or extension shall be forwarded to the SFFCSF at the same address. 5. By signing the agreement, each representative of a party represents that he or she is fully authorized to enter into this agreement, and that the Party for which the representative is signing accepts the terms, responsibilities, obligations and limitations of this Agreement, and agrees to bound thereto to the fullest extent allowed by law. (Rest of this page intentionally left blank) * South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 16 of 36 Pages IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the authorized representatives of Parties hereto sign on the date specified hereafter: Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. ************************************************************************************************************ I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the City of Coral Gables Police Department. Signature Title: _1 Mayor Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Amos Rojas Jr. Edward J Hudak Jr., Chief of Police Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: Cristina M. Suarez, City Attorney Attest: Billy Urquia, City Clerk Date: Date: Date: South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 17 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the City of Miami Police Department. Date: Arturo Noriega, City Manager Attest: By: Date: Todd B. Hannon, City Clerk Approved as to Form and Correctness: Date: George Wysong, City Attorney Date: Approved as to Insurance Requirements: By: Date: Ann -Marie Sharpe, Director of Risk Management South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 18 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. ************************************************************************************************************ I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the City of North Miami Police Department. Signature Title: E Mayor E Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 19 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the City of Miami Gardens Police Department. Signature Title: Mayor 1 Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 20 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. **************************************************************************************************** I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the City of Doral Police Department. Signature Title: i Mayor Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 21 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. ************************************************************************************************************ I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the Town of Golden Beach Police Department. Signature Title: 11 Mayor I Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 22 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the Village of Indian Creek Police Department. Signature Title: Mayor J1 Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 23 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the Miami Springs Police Department. Signature Title: 7 Mayor Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 24 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the Florida International University Police Department. Date: Signature Title: 1 Florida International University Board of Trustees Date: Chief of Police Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: Date: Signature Title: Florida International University Board of Trustees South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 25 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf for the Office of the State Attorney of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida (In and For Miami -Dade County, Florida): Signature Katherine Fernandez -Rundle State Attorney Date: South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 26 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida Police Department. Signature Title: -1 Mayor Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 27 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. ***„******************************************************************************************************** hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the Town of Medley Police Department. Signature Title: Mayor Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: Chief of Police Date Approved as to Form and Legal Sufficiency: City Attorney Attest: Date Date South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 28 of 36 Pages Party's Acceptance of the September 2024 SOUTH FLORIDA FINANCIAL CRIMES STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT Pursuant to F.S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor or chief executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authorized by the governing body of the municipality or county. By signing below, an indication of such authorization is being made. Any signatory may attach to this signature page any further evidence of authorization you wish to remain on file at the SAO along with this signature page. I hereby acknowledge that I have been authorized by the governing body of the municipality to enter into this Agreement on behalf of the (Left Blank for Future Police Department). Signature Print or Type Name Title: 1 Sheriff Chief Executive Officer, to wit: Date: South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 29 of 36 Pages End of Signature Pages, Attachments Follow South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 30 of 36 Pages ATTACHMENT A: Strike Force Forfeitures and Seizures Directive (Rev. 10/06) A. FORFEITURE - means anything that is taken into custody by the SFFCSF investigators that falls under the Florida Forfeiture and Contraband Act. In general, all Asset Forfeitures will be conducted under Coral Gables Police Department procedures. 1. All property that is taken under forfeiture will be: a. Placed into the Coral Gables Police Department Property Unit or, as in case of vehicles, recorded on Coral Gables Police Department Vehicle Storage Reports after inventory search. (See attached Coral Gables Police Department Policy number #050) b. All property will be listed in the Coral Gables P.D. Case Report and copies forwarded to the appropriate forfeiture attorney by 5pm the next business day. B. SEIZURE OF CONTRABAND - means taking into custody anything illegal to possess. (See Currency Handling Procedures) 1. All seizures will be placed in the Coral Gables Police Department Property Unit or applicable seizing agency. 2. All property that is taken into custody will be: a. Fully documented on Coral Gables Police Department Property Receipt. b. All seizures will be listed in the Forfeiture/ Confiscation's Report and copies sent within 24 hours to the Dade County SAO Forfeiture Attorneys and the Confiscation Unit. 3. In all instances where controlled substances are seized that are in the amount which warrants trafficking charges or instances where monies are seized in excess of $1,000, the SFFCSF will assign at least three investigators to the custody of the contraband or monies. The investigators will maintain custody until the controlled substance or monies are placed into the Coral Gables Police Department Property/Evidence room or applicable seizing agency. 4. In all seizures, it is required to complete the SFFCSF ZY Entry Form. This form is to be completed by the case agent. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 31 of 36 Pages ATTACHMENT B Strike Force Evidence Directive A. Each investigator is responsible for the evidence he or she has the occasion to purchase or seize. All controlled substances are to be treated in a very thorough and careful manner. B. All evidence will be turned in to the Coral Gables Police Department Property/Evidence Unit as soon as possible after its seizure. C. Evidence will not be stored in any facility other than the Coral Gables Police Department Property Unit (i.e., desk, lockers, etc.). Controlled substances will always be checked into the Coral Gables Police Department Property Unit prior to the end of the investigator's tour of duty. D. Tests of controlled substances to establish probable cause will be done at the scene by the impounding investigator and the results documented in the SFFCSF Report. E. Chemical analysis of controlled substances will be performed by the Miami -Dade Crime Lab or other facility as determined by the Task Force Deputy Director. The investigator is responsible for: Coral Gables Property Receipt Miami Dade County Lab Analysis Form Miami Dade County Property Receipt with Miami Dade County Case number. F. Three' investigators are required when handling trafficking amounts of controlled substances or amounts of currency in excess of $1,000. G. When an arrest for a controlled substance is made, the arresting investigator will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of the evidence, until it is turned in to the Coral Gables Property/Evidence unit. * As the Coral Gables Police Department is our primary evidence repository see attached Coral Gables Police Department SOP #050 (Evidence and Property) in order to comply with those regulations. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 32 of 36 Pages ATTACHMENT C Florida's Mandatory Statewide Forfeiture Guidelines (These Apply To ALL Florida Law Enforcement Agencies Independent of This Agreement) Guidelines and Training Procedures To Be Used By State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies And State Attorneys in Implementing The Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act I. Policy Statement The Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act, Sections 932.701 through 932.707, Florida Statutes, (Act) authorizes law enforcement agencies to seize and forfeit real and personal property, including currency, vehicles, aircraft, and other contraband articles that are used in violation of the Act. The Act also allows seizure and forfeiture of any controlled substance as defined in Chapter 893, Florida Statutes, or any substance, device, paraphernalia, or currency or other means of exchange that was used, was attempted to be used, or was intended to be used in violation of any provision of Chapter 893, Florida Statutes if a nexus can be dearly demonstrated between the article(s) seized and the narcotics activity, whether or not the use of the contraband article(s) can be traced to a specific narcotics transaction. It is the policy of the State of Florida that law enforcement agencies shall utilize the provisions of the Act to deter and prevent the continued use of contraband articles for criminal purposes while protecting the proprietary interests of innocent owners and lien holders and to authorize such law enforcement agencies to use the proceeds collected under the Act as supplemental funding for authorized purposes. The potential for obtaining revenues from forfeitures must not override fundamental considerations such as public safety, the safety of law enforcement officers, or the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity. It is also the policy of this state that law enforcement agencies ensure that, in all seizures made under the Act, their officers adhere to federal and state constitutional limitations regarding an individual's right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures, including, but not limited to, the illegal use of stops based on a pretext, coercive consent searches, or a search based solely upon an individual's race or ethnicity. The Act provides procedural safeguards for those claiming or having an interest in the seized property, including bona fide lien holders, lessors, and innocent co -owners. The Act complements the other options available to Florida law enforcement agencies in addressing criminal activity, is a valuable tool of law enforcement to be used by Florida law enforcement agencies to assist their law enforcement mission, and is to be preserved and wisely used as a valuable weapon in Florida's law enforcement arsenal. II. Purpose The purpose of these Uniform Standards is to provide statewide guidelines for law enforcement policies and procedures used in seizing, maintaining, and forfeiting property under the Act and to provide training procedures to be used by state and local law enforcement agencies and state attorneys in implementing the Act. Compliance with these Standards will enhance the goal of establishing more uniform forfeiture practices throughout the state. These Uniform Standards are to be interpreted in a manner to assure that to the greatest extent possible there is uniformity of policy and procedure throughout the state. It is not the intent or purpose of these Standards to create new rights of parties or new defenses to forfeiture actions. All rights and actions are defined by the substantive provisions of the Act itself or other applicable law. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 33 of 36 Pages III. Principles The following principles should be incorporated within the policies and procedures of any state or local law enforcement agency involved in the seizure and forfeiture of property under the Act - A. LAW ENFORCEMENT IS THE PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVE OF ASSET FORFEITURE. The potential for obtaining revenues from forfeitures must not override fundamental considerations such as public safety, the safety of law enforcement officers, the investigation and prosecution of criminal activity, and respect for the rights of individuals as provided by law. B. The employment, salary, promotion or other compensation of a law enforcement officer or attorney should not depend on obtaining a quota of seizures. C. Agencies should ensure, through the use of written policy and procedures and training, compliance with all applicable legal requirements regarding seizing, maintaining, and forfeiting property under the Act. D. When property other than currency is seized for forfeiture, the probable cause supporting the seizure should be promptly reviewed by a supervisor who is not directly involved in making the seizure. The determination of whether to seize currency must be made by supervisory personnel. The agency's legal counsel must be notified as soon as possible of all seizures. E. The determination of whether an agency will file a civil forfeiture action should be made by the agency head or other command level designee who is not directly involved in making the seizure. F. Every seizing agency should have policies and procedures promoting, when there is no other legitimate basis for holding seized property, the prompt release of such property as may be required by the Act or by agency determination. To help assure that property is not wrongfully held after seizure, every agency shall have policies and procedures ensuring that all asserted claims of interest in seized property are promptly reviewed for potential validity. G. A seizing agency may not use the seized property for any purpose until the rights to, interest in, and title to the seized property are perfected in accordance with the Act. This does not prohibit the use or operation necessary for reasonable maintenance of seized property. Reasonable efforts shall be made to maintain seized property in such a manner as to minimize loss of value. H. Settlement of any forfeiture action shall be consistent with the mandates of the Act and in compliance with agency policy or directive. All forfeited property retained for law enforcement use should be maintained and utilized in accordance with the Act, and should be subject to the same controls with regard to property acquired through the agency's normal appropriations process. J. Any agency receiving forfeiture proceeds should maintain such moneys in a special fund as provided by law, which is subject to normal accounting controls and financial audits of all deposits and expenditures. If the seizing agency is a county or municipal agency, the proceeds and interest thereon may not be used to meet normal operating expenses of the law enforcement agency. Seizing agencies must file reports as required by the Act. K. Each state or local law enforcement agency that seizes property for the purposes of forfeiture shall periodically review the agency's seizures of property, as well as settlements and forfeiture proceedings initiated by the agency to determine whether such seizures, settlements and forfeitures comply with the Act and these Standards. Such review should occur at least annually. If the review suggests deficiencies, the agency shall promptly move to ensure the agency's compliance with the Act and these Standards. L. Agencies should avoid the appearance of impropriety in the acquisition, sale, retention, or transfer of any forfeited property or proceeds derived from such property. South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 34 of 36 Pages M. Agency personnel involved in the seizure of property for forfeiture shall receive periodic training as noted in Section IV, below. IV. Training Procedures Each state or local law enforcement agency shall ensure that its officers involved in seizing property for forfeiture under the Act receive basic training and continuing education as required by the Act. Each agency shall maintain records demonstrating an officer's compliance with these training requirements. A portion of such training must address legal aspects of forfeiture, including search and seizure, or other constitutional considerations. (End of Mandatory Forfeiture Guidelines). End of September, 2027 Mutual Aid Agreement and Attachments South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 35 of 36 Pages PAGE LEFT BLANK FOR FUTURE USE South Florida Financial Crimes Strike Force Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2024) Page 36 of 36 Pages