HomeMy WebLinkAboutContracts & Agreements_83-2020MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING
Inland Regional Narcotics
Enforcement Team
(IRNET)
Revised 12/10/19
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1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE I NAME.. 1
ARTICLE II. PURPOSE 1
ARTICLE III. EXECUTIVE BOARD 1
ARTICLE IV. AMENDMENTS TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING 1
ARTICLE V DISTRIBUTION FROM FORFEITURE ACTIONS AND SEIZURE OF ASSETS 2
ARTICLE VI. ORGANIZATIONAL OPERATING PROCEDURES 2
A Site Location 2
B Structural Command 2
C Case Initiation 3
D Enforcement Manpower 3
E Prosecutorial Support 3
1 Cross -Designation of Attorneys 3
2 Special Program Attorney 3
F Equipment Pool 3
G Request for Assistance 3
H Reporting Format 4
I Undercover Documents 4
J Operating Standards 4
K Personnel 4
L Life of this Agreement 4
ARTICLE VII. FISCAL PROCEDURE 5
A. Special Appropriation Fund 5
B Asset Sharing 5
ARTICLE VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINES 5
A Case Information
B Document Security
C Undercover Documentation 6
D Firearms 6
E Qualification 7
F Other Defensive Equipment 7
1 Handcuffs 7
2 Equipment 7
3 Protective Garments 7
4 Operation Jackets 7
G Press Release 7
H Release of Information 7
1 General Information for Release 7
2 Information NOT for Release 8
I Multi-Agency Administrative Concerns
1. Citizen Complaints 8
2. Employee Evaluation 8
3 Injuries Sustained On-Duty 9
4 On-Duty Motor Vehicle Accidents . 9
J Administrative Policy 9
ARTICLE IX INVESTIGATIVE GUIDELINES 9
A Outside Agencies - Requests For Assistance 9
B Notification .. 9
C Undercover Operations 10
1 Preparation and Planning 10
2 Determine Logistical Needs 10
D Use of Intoxicating Beverages/Drugs 12
E Investigative Expenses 13
1 Narcotic Purchases . 13
2 Program Maintenance 14
3 Operational Expenses . 14
F Confidential Informant Procedures 14
1 Informant Files .. 14
2 Request Memorandum ... 15
3 Follow-up Memorandum 15
G Informant Identification 16
H Planning Operations Involving Informants 16
I. Undesirable Informants 16
J Shooting Incidents 17
K Evidence 17
1 Collection, Storage, and Testing 17
ARTICLE X. FISCAL GUIDELINES 18
A Payroll Checks and Balances 18
1 Payroll 18
2 Sick Time 18
3 Overtime 18
B Fiscal and Voucher Procedure 18
ARTICLE XI SIGNATURE PAGES 19
California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control 19
Drug Enforcement Administration 20
Federal Bureau of Investigations 21
Montclair Pohce Department 22
Ontario Police Department , 23
Redlands Police Department 24
Riverside County Sheriffs Department 25
San Bernardino Police Department ....... . 26
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department 27
U S Department of Homeland Security.... 28
ARTICLE I NAME
The name of this organization shall be the Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team
(IRNET).
ARTICLE II. PURPOSE
The purposes of this organization are:
The identification and conviction of high-level drug traffickers and the seizure of assets derived
through drug trafficking.
The targeting, investigation, and prosecution of individuals who organize, direct, finance, or
otherwise engage in high-level drug trafficking enterprises, or money laundering with high priority
emphasis on those subjects engaged in the importation of drugs for sale into San Bernardino and
Riverside Counties
Members will conduct coordinated drug enforcement efforts throughout the Inland Region,
encouraging maximum cooperation between all law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies
ARTICLE III. EXECUTIVE BOARD
An Executive Board will direct the affairs of this organization The members of this Board will
be the Sheriff of San Bernardino County, the Sheriff of Riverside County, the Chiefs of all
participating Police Departments, and the Special Agents in Charge of the participating federal
and state law enforcement agencies or their designees
Starting January 1, 2017, the IRNET Executive Board will attempt to meet on a trimester (3 times
a year) schedule Due to scheduling conflicts, it is difficult to forecast yearly trimester meeting
dates, however, the Executive Board must meet annually at a minimum All meetings are
scheduled at the Sheriff s Department Gangs/Narcotics Division Commander's request to maintain
this requirement
ARTICLE IV AMENDMENTS TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
The Executive Board may amend any Article of this Memorandum of Understanding by a two-
thirds (2/3) vote of the quorum
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ARTICLE V. DISTRIBUTION FROM FORFEITURE ACTIONS AND SEIZURE OF ASSETS
IRNET investigators shall conduct thorough investigations, to include identification of all assets
qualifying for forfeiture proceedings Civil and criminal forfeiture statutes will be explored in
every instance.
Assets seized federally are subject to an administrative cost, which is 20% for the Department of
Justice or 30% for the Department of Treasury Any forms submitted for equitable sharing by
agencies outside of IRNET will reduce all IRNET partner agency percentages, according to
equitable sharing guidelines Assets seized through under State law are subject to an administrative
cost of 35% for the State of California
It is agreed that each IRNET participating agency may submit a claim for an equitable share of
any remaining funds based on the participating agency's respective contribution to the IRNET
organization IRNET participating agencies agree that each agency will be awarded 3 502% per
personnel assigned to IRNET Sworn personnel assigned to IRNET are as follows. ABC - 1,
Montclair PD - 1, Redlands PD — 1, Riverside SO - 1, Ontario PD - 1, San Bernardino PD - 1, San
Bernardino County SO - 13 It is agreed that SBSD will receive an additional 21%, which will be
returned to the IRNET program to cover operating costs, and an additional 12 475%, which will
be used to pay Confidential Informants Therefore, the agreed-upon equitable share of the assets
seized shall be.
ABC Share —3.502%
San Bernardino PD Share — 3 502%
Montclair PD Share — 3 502%
Ontario PD Share — 3 502%
Riverside Sheriffs Dept Share — 3 502%
Redlands PD Share — 3 502%
SBSD Share — 78 988%
All IRNET participating members will be responsible for submitting their forms on behalf of their
agency for an equitable share of seized assets. All returned assets will be distributed under
applicable federal and state law and following the Guide to Equitable Sharing for State, Local,
and Tribal Law Enforcement Agencies
ARTICLE VI ORGANIZATIONAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
A Site Location
The site location of this project will be as approved by the Board
B. Structural Command
The Sheriffs Department, Gangs/Narcotics Division, will assign a designee with the rank of
lieutenant or higher, which will be responsible for reporting directly to the Board on all matters of
IRNET concern
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C Case Initiation
All IRNET investigations shall regularly be reviewed by the Sheriff's Department
Gangs/Narcotics Division lieutenant or his designee. Areas of discretion in the setting of priorities
for these cases will be determined by, but not limited to, the type of enterprise, the impact on the
community, current caseload, available workforce and equipment and workable investigative
leads.
D. Enforcement Manpower
This project shall be designed to bring the highest level of expertise from contiguous and, at times,
overlapping jurisdictions to focus jointly on major drug trafficking Personnel shall be limited to
50 investigative officers
E. Prosecutorial Support
At the inception of this project, it shall be incumbent upon the Executive Board members to
coordinate a firm and positive relationship between the United States Attorney and the State
Attorney designees
1. Cross -Designation of Attorneys
To enhance collaboration between federal prosecutors and their state and local colleagues,
it may be advantageous to cross -designate local and federal prosecutors
2. Special Program Attorney
As previously recommended, consistency on how to best proceed in certain instances could
best be achieved by allowing the program direct access to one (1) attorney assigned for that
specific purpose
F. Equipment Pool
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department will supply IRNET members with specialized
items, mobile devices, and office equipment (desks, chairs, typewriters, file cabinets, phones,
computers, office supplies, etc )
The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department will not supply vehicles to personnel assigned
to the task force Member agencies should assign vehicles appropriate for use in covert surveillance
operations All vehicle maintenance shall be the responsibility of the member agency. The
participating agency should provide their investigator with department radio and mobile device
which will assist with investigations
G Request for Assistance
It shall be the policy of this program to respond to a request for case development assistance from
any law enforcement agency whose situation demands expertise or resources beyond their existing
limitations
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H. Reporting Format
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department standard report forms and case report incident
numbers shall be utilized for case development and to track program activity An internal
numbering system will be used as well to account for all activities.
I. Undercover Documents
The use of documents to support or enhance undercover operations will be encouraged. These
will include, but will not be limited to, driver's licenses, credit cards, checking accounts, and
passports The procurement, utilization, and control of these documents will be such as to assure
that they are properly accounted for and are used only for authorized purposes
J Operating Standards
All matters governing operating procedures will balance the rights of citizens and the needs of law
enforcement to detect, arrest, and prosecute individuals engaged in major illicit drug activity
Effective control of major illicit drug traffickers depends to a large degree on the close working
relationship among agencies at all levels of law enforcement Therefore, all IRNET personnel will
assist in their fullest individual ability in the development of inter -agency cooperation
K Personnel
Their respective department head must approve the assignment of federal, state, and local officers
to IRNET The commander or his designee of the Sheriff's Gangs/Narcotics Division, with Board
approval, may reject any nominee based on the officer's training, past performance, or other factors
bearing on suitability
Federal, state, and local officers assigned to IRNET will work full time unless special Executive
Board arrangements have been made Officers will be under the direct daily supervision of the
Sheriff's Department Gangs/Narcotics Division lieutenant and follow all policies, procedures, and
guidelines specifically enacted by IRNET Upon assignment to IRNET, all members shall read the
IRNET policy manual The member will sign an Inter -Office Memorandum (IOM), indicating they
read the policy. A copy of the IOM will be filed at IRNET and provided to the member Should
any of the IRNET policies or procedures conflict with their own department rules and regulations,
the individual member will immediately bring said conflict to the attention of his/her IRNET
supervisor The supervisor will, in turn, bring the matter to the attention of the IRNET Manager,
who will take the necessary action to rectify the situation
L Life of this Agreement
This agreement is effective on the date both parties of this agreement sign it Either party may
terminate this agreement on 30 -days advanced written notice
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ARTICLE VII FISCAL PROCEDURE
A Special Appropriation Fund
A Special Appropriation Fund shall be established by SBSD to which members of IRNET may
charge expenditures as necessary in the performance of the duties of the program In general, such
charges shall include extraordinary or special expenses incurred in the investigation of major
narcotics traffickers.
The utilization, responsibility, accountability, and control of this fund shall be determined
exclusively by the Sheriff's Department lieutenant overseeing IRNET and shall conform to
standards as required by policy and procedure for San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department.
Federal agencies will adhere to federal law and respective agency policies and procedures for any
expenditures and reimbursements of expenses incurred by or through the federal agent
B Asset Sharing
IRNET will provide an audit trail that will show the assets seized are following applicable state
and federal law IRNET's finance specialist will notify partner agencies of a seized asset so the
required forms can be submitted
A monthly Activity Report will be forwarded to each IRNET member agency, which shall include
activity and seizures by month and year to date
ARTICLE VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINES
A. Case Information
Large scale narcotics investigations are sensitive Protection of sources of information and
management of information about areas of narcotics/drug-related activity are essential
Dissemination of information and reports will be done on a need -to -know basis in compliance with
existing state and federal laws, and when appropriate, in compliance with the Department of
Justice guidelines
Written reports are vital to the conduct of operations They are our formal means of
communicating among ourselves, with other agencies and with the court In composing an
investigation report, the officer should remember that it will be read by someone else and will most
likely form the basis for action or inaction by the reader The report may also be read by someone
seeking to discredit its contents or IRNET itself Investigative reports will be completed promptly
and will describe activities fully, exactly, and plainly All case reports will be kept in the IRNET
office until the conclusion of the case
Statistical information regarding arrests and narcotics seized will be forwarded to the jurisdictional
agency in which such activity took place to maintain proper information reporting procedures to
the State Department of Justice
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Questions about the appropriateness of releasing case information will be referred to the lieutenant
of IRNET
B. Document Security
All reports and records will be designated "Confidential" ("Unclassified" for FBI) This material
will be secured under lock and key when unattended Access to all files is on a need -to -know
basis
IRNET will not keep intelligence files Case files actively being worked will be kept under the
direct security of IRNET until the investigation is concluded Federal agencies will maintain their
files in compliance with the Freedom of Information Act
If IRNET feels certain case information should be considered "intelligence," the entire file will be
sent to the appropriate agency and filed under that department's guidelines for intelligence
information.
At no time will investigative reports or official records be kept or stored anywhere but the
designated office of IRNET or the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Records Bureau
In any case, the storage of reports and dissemination of information will always be done in strict
accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws
C. Undercover Documentation
Should IRNET require assigned officers to assume a covert identity, arrangements will be made
to issue each IRNET officer as required
1 A California Driver's License, and
2 Documents to support covert identification as they become available
The IRNET lieutenant will maintain records and photostatic copies of all identities issued
to officers These documents shall only be used while the officers are on duty and working
in an official capacity, and the use of the covert identity is required in the furtherance of
the case The IRNET lieutenant may deem additional documentation, such as credit cards,
a credit rating with TRW, a passport, or a social security card to support identity The need
for these items will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis In every situation requiring
assigned officers to obtain undercover documentation, their respective department heads
will be advised that the required application forms have been submitted
D. Firearms
Every officer assigned to IRNET will carry a firearm following their department's policies and
procedures Officers may carry authorized firearms while off duty; however, applicable
departmental policies about the use of firearms shall apply
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E. Qualification
IRNET member's department must approve any firearm carried by an officer, and minimum
departmental standards for qualification met If no departmental requirements exist, the San
Bernardino County Sheriff's Department standards will apply, and officers will qualify on a
trimester schedule
F. Other Defensive Equipment
1. Handcuffs
A set of handcuffs will be carried by officers when engaged in any type of enforcement
activity (excluding undercover work)
2. Equipment
The Board may authorize the purchase and use of equipment to assist IRNET in
accomplishing its purpose
3. Protective Garments
All officers with IRNET will have available a bullet-proof (protective) vest Officers shall
wear their vests in arrest and search situations
4 Operation Jackets
In arrests, searches, and similar enforcement situations, members of IRNET shall wear the
approved operation jackets/vests.
G. Press Release
IRNET will cooperate with the media to assist them in obtaining information on matters of public
interest However, certain information must remain confidential to protect the Constitutional
Rights of the accused, avoid interfering with an IRNET investigation, or because it is legally
privileged
IRNET will function as a unit All members will refer to themselves as members of IRNET If
asked what agency you are employed by, the member should respond by identifying their
respective agency and their assignment to the "Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team "
The IRNET lieutenant will designate the "Press Information Officer " Members of IRNET will not
release information to the press unless otherwise directed to do so by the IRNET lieutenant
H Release of Information
The IRNET lieutenant will be available to assist in the dissemination or coordination of such
information The Information to be released will be determined by the facts of each situation and
in the direction of the Executive Board Generally, a description of the circumstances which do
not prejudice the rights of the suspect(s) or interfere with an investigation will be made.
1. General Information for Release
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a Type of crime (statutes violated, etc )
b The extent of injury or damage
c Value of drugs seized
d Date and time of crime discovery
e Length of investigation
f Suspect name and age, if adult
g Factual details of the incident
2 Information NOT for Release
a. Prior criminal record, character, or reputation of accused
b. The existence or contents of any confession, admission, or statement given
by the accused, or failure of the accused to make any statement
c The identity, testimony, or credibility of any prospective witnesses
d The possibility of a plea bargain
e Any opinion as to the guilt or innocence of the accused.
Multi Agency Administrative Concerns
1. Citizen Complaints
Any complaint from an individual alleging misconduct by personnel of IRNET will be
directed to the IRNET lieutenant or in his absence, a supervisor, and a written report will
be submitted to the Sheriff's Department Gangs/Narcotics Division commander for
evaluation
The IRNET lieutenant will notify the officer's respective agency and facilitate their
investigation of the incident
It will be the policy of IRNET to receive, record, and properly direct all citizen complaints
against its members without exception
2. Employee Evaluation
IRNET recognizes that all agencies have at least annual employee evaluations. When such
evaluations are due, the supervisor of the affected employee will assist the appropriate law
enforcement supervisor in completing a fair and objective evaluation for the rating period
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3. Injuries Sustained On -Duty
When an IRNET officer is injured on duty, it will be necessary to follow the procedures
required by the officer's agency, including notification of the specific agency involved In
emergencies, the officer will receive immediate medical attention most expediently To
assist the supervisors in ensuring an officer's injury is treated without unnecessary delay,
officers assigned to IRNET will supply their supervisor with a packet containing the forms
and application instructions for processing per Sheriffs Department policies and
procedures
4. On -Duty Motor Vehicle Accidents
If an IRNET Officer is involved in an accident while on duty, a long -form accident report
will be completed by the jurisdictional agency Copies will be forwarded to the officer's
agency and the IRNET lieutenant for further review and necessary action. In any on -duty
motor vehicle accident, whether injury or non -injury, the IRNET lieutenant or his
designee will immediately notify the member agency, so they can notify their appropriate
Risk Management/Civil Liabilities Division per Sheriffs Department policies and
procedures.
J Administrative Policy
All members of IRNET will be expected to conform to their department's policy and procedure,
as well as any additional policies and procedures set forth by IRNET (such as performance
expectations, punctuality, and chain of command)
ARTICLE IX INVESTIGATIVE GUIDELINES
A. Outside Agencies - Requests For Assistance
It shall be the policy of IRNET to respond to requests for case development assistance from any
law enforcement agency whose situation demands expertise or resources beyond their existing
capabilities All such requests will be reviewed by the IRNET lieutenant as soon as practicable
after being received
The Sheriff's Department Gangs/Narcotics Division commander will be informed of all requests
for assistance made by non -participating agencies
IRNET recognizes that the jurisdictional make-up of Southern California lends itself to
investigative overlay during narcotics case development Therefore, IRNET will strictly adhere
to the following notification procedures to minimize any chance of conflicting with the
enforcement routine of the affected jurisdiction
B. Notification
Before opening an active case, IRNET will contact the local agency of jurisdiction and check to
see if that department is already actively working a case on the subject(s) of IRNET's investigation
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Also, IRNET will contact adjacent jurisdictions and LACRCIC/WSIN to see if any agency has
information on the subjects
After opening a case, IRNET will utilize the guidelines of LACRCIC/WSIN to identifying the case
and subjects being worked to facilitate communications between investigating agencies and
eliminate duplication of effort
Note• IRNET will maintain close communication with the affected jurisdiction
throughout its investigation If the agency in question has an open, active case of
its own centered on that target, IRNET will not open a separate case unless
requested to do so by the affected agency (See Requests for Assistance )
When executing Search or Arrest Warrants, the following procedure will be followed, and, when
appropriate, at least one uniformed officer from the jurisdictional agency will be requested and
utilized
Members of IRNET will notify the jurisdictional agency Watch Commander regarding the type of
activity which will be taking place, the location, and approximate time of the operation
IRNET will also notify the narcotics detail of the affected agency.
1. To prevent a duplication of effort
2. To protect undercover officers
3 A means to gather additional intelligence.
C. Undercover Operations
IRNET, by its nature, will have numerous occasions to conduct undercover operations
Specifically, this will entail introducing undercover officers to narcotics traffickers to purchase
drugs or infiltrate their organization The following guidelines will be adhered to as to ensure
officer safety and proper case development (Federal agencies will additionally observe DOJ
guidelines)
1. Preparation and Planning
a Discuss the purpose and intention of the operation with your supervisor
Depending on the magnitude of the investigation, it may require prior
approval through the IRNET lieutenant to the Executive Board
2. Determine Logistical Needs
a Manpower
An IRNET supervisor will assess each case with the IRNET lieutenant to
determine if special tactics or the utilization of a special weapons team will
be required Jurisdictional responsibilities will be recognized.
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b Equipment
1. Communications
2 Wireless Transmitter/Receiver with Recorder
3 Helicopter
4) "Flash Roll"
c Plan Formulation
1 Indicate the scenario the Undercover Officer will utilize
2 Designate a Case Agent
3 Prepare a case history on the violators involved
d Operational Plan
1 A written operational plan will be submitted by the Case Agent on all
narcotics investigations, including buy/busts, arrest and search warrant
service, and undercover surveillance cases The IRNET lieutenant will
approve all operational plans In cases involving narcotics deliveries out
of state or reverse operations more than 10 kilos in weight, the captain
of the Narcotics Division (SBCSD) will be notified before beginning
the operation
2 Plan Format
a. The written plan will include suspect information, criminal
history, pictures, vehicles, and associates.
b A of the suspect's method of operation and other criminal
tendencies
c Maps, diagrams, and address.
1 Clothing description
2 Undercover vehicle
3 Money flash vehicle
4 Clothing description of undercover officers and confidential
informant, if involved
5 Arrest and trouble signal (visual and audio)
6 List of all officers involved, including their assignment and
vehicle and equipment responsibilities.
7 Copies of the plan will be distributed to all involved officers
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d Notification of the law enforcement agency where the operation
will take place will be noted on the plan, including who was
notified
e Communication channel frequency for the operation and
necessary clearances from Central Dispatch (An alternative
frequency should be included in case of communication
problems on the primary channel)
f Before starting, a complete briefing will be conducted utilizing
the written plan
g. The sergeant assigned to the IRNET team will approve all
operation plans before its implementation
e. Undercover Operation (U/C)
1 The U/C will not deviate from the written plan unless he/she can
obtain supervisory approval during the operation
2 When the arrest signal is given, the U/C will not be involved in the
actual arrest unless the situation dictates his/her intervention
3 If during the operation, the U/C is robbed by the suspects for the
flash money, he/she will immediately give the trouble signal and
rely on the cover/surveillance units to take appropriate actions
4 The U/C officer will never "front" any portion of the flash roll.
Additionally, he/she will not "front" any special funds for
narcotics purchases without prior supervisory approval
5 The U/C officer will never meet with suspects in a narcotics
investigation without proper surveillance and cover units
Notification and approval by an IRNET sergeant are required
before any meeting between a suspect and CI.
6 Section 11367 of the Health and Safety Code provides immunity
from prosecution to authorized peace officers or other agents
while investigating violations of the Health and Safety Code
D. Use of Intoxicating Beverages/Drugs
1 IRNET Personnel will not use or possess any intoxicating beverage before reporting for duty
to the extent that they are impaired, nor will they use intoxicating beverages while on duty
Members will adhere to their respective department policies for the use of intoxicating
beverages IRNET personnel, with the consent of their superior officer, may drink alcoholic
beverages while on duty when necessary to accomplish a police purpose
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a. IRNET personnel who have approval from a superior to drink while involved in a
covert operation must
1 Not drink to such a degree that their judgment may be impaired
2 Not drive a vehicle after such assignment, until reaching an appropriate state
of sobriety
b IRNET personnel will ensure that all persons under their control and who have used
alcoholic beverages can perform their tasks without becoming a danger to
themselves or others
2 IRNET officers shall not maintain drugs or paraphernalia for their use or provide
paraphernalia for use
3. IRNET personnel shall not use any narcotics or drugs The only exception would be in a life-
threatening situation. If in the best judgment of the employee, failure to use a drug or narcotic
could result in death or serious injury, that employee may participate in the use IRNET
personnel will notify their supervisor if they are taking prescribed medication that may
interfere with the performance of their job duties
During some covert investigations, it may become necessary to simulate the use of narcotics,
for example, simulating the smoking of marijuana or the inhalation of stimulant drugs.
a As soon as possible after use or simulation, the officer will be examined by a
supervisor and, if necessary, by medical personnel to determine the extent of
intoxication or effect A complete report by the officer and his supervisor will be
submitted regarding the circumstances of the use of simulation and the effects
thereof Based on this examination and report, appropriate action will be taken if
necessary by the IRNET lieutenant
4 The investigative staff will see that informants under their direction have read and understood
the provisions of the Confidential Agreement Form as it applies to the use of alcohol, drugs,
and narcotics
E. Investigative Expenses
IRNET officers will, in the performance of their duties, expend program funds during narcotic
investigations. Included in this area will be narcotic purchases, program maintenance, and
operational expenses (Federal agents will adhere to their respective agencies policies)
1. Narcotic Purchases
IRNET officers will have the availability of expending funds for narcotics with prior
supervisory approval
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2. Program Maintenance
Will include meals, gasoline, lodging, and money for confidential informants and/or
witnesses Another officer will be present while disbursing these funds or obtaining a
signed receipt from the recipient The purpose is to protect the credibility of IRNET
officers. On rare occasions, it is conceivable that an officer will not be able to adhere to
the above policy In those instances, the officer can disburse funds and later advise a
supervisor of the circumstances
3 Operational Expenses
Will include officer expenses in an undercover capacity for food, gasoline, lodging, vehicle
rental, special equipment, and any other item deemed necessary by the supervisor to
enhance the successful completion of an operation
F. Confidential Informant Procedures
It will be the responsibility of IRNET sergeants to ensure that the following procedures are
followed by investigative personnel while utilizing informant operatives While assigned to
IRNET, federal agents responsible for managing IRNET informants will follow their respective
agency's policies while remaining in compliance with the below -listed IRNET policies.
1 Informant Files
An IRNET coded file will be maintained on each informant operative, which will
minimally consist of the following
a Background Information Sheet and Photograph
b CII and/or FBI Rap Sheet
c A report of the prospective investigations in which officers anticipate
engaging the informant
d A list of investigations in which the informant has participated
e De -briefing of current criminal activity that the informant knows.
f Copies of authorization and follow-up memorandums (if applicable)
g Informant files shall be kept pursuant to member agency policies and
procedures
h The IRNET IRNET lieutenant shall maintain a copy of informant files in
compliance with the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department policy
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2. Request Memorandum
The investigator wishing to use an informant who is currently charged or is going to be
charged will initiate a memorandum requesting authorization.
a. Memorandum addressed to the IRNET lieutenant and District Attorney or
United States Attorney from an IRNET supervisor
b Contain a summary of charges
c Authorization from arresting officer or agency
d. A general overview of proposed investigations (do not list the suspect's
name)
e The type of investigative assistance informant is expected to provide
(information, obtain evidence, a covert operative, testify, etc )
f A paragraph outlining the informant's understanding of the District
Attorney's and IRNET's involvement, which specifically states that no
promises of leniency or specific types of sentencing can be made, and the
defendant must enter a guilty plea on the charges The Court will ultimately
handle the disposition and sentencing of the case with which he/she is
presently charged. The District Attorney and IRNET can only make
recommendations based on their evaluation of the informant's participation
in the investigations
g Attachments
i. Informant's current CII and/or FBI Rap Sheet
ii. Confidential Agreement Form
111 Consent Form
iv Copy of Crime Reports (if possible)
3. Follow-up Memorandum
After the investigations are completed, a follow-up memorandum shall be written to the
District Attorney or United States Attorney outlining the informant's assistance. It will
contain the following
a Present status of the case pending against informant
b Investigations
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c A general appraisal of aid rendered by the informant (very successful, did
not meet the commitment, seemed insincere, etc )
d If an informant fails to meet his/her commitments and make himself/herself
available to and participate with the investigating officers, the IRNET
lieutenant and District Attorney or United States Attorney will be advised
inunediately by inter -office memorandum The IRNET lieutenant shall
review all follow-up memorandums and status memorandums written to the
District Attorney or United States Attorney concerning the Confidential
Informants and then hand -carried to the District Attorney or the United
States Attorney
G. Informant Identification
The informant's identity must always be known to the supervisor and IRNET lieutenant.
1 Officers are reluctant to divulge the names of their informants, so access to informant files
must be limited on a "need -to -know basis" only
2 Knowing the name of the informant is not enough A complete identification package will be
maintained
H. Planning Operations Involving Informants
Planning includes proper time, workforce, and logistical support
1 The case agent must control the direction of the operations and the informant. They must never
place themselves in the position of having to act when there is not enough team members or
equipment
2 The entire relationship and direction must come from the officer
a It is not uncommon for the informant to attempt to become involved in
planning
b The informant should not be present at briefings
Undesirable Informants
When a case agent is aware an informant is undesirable, all contact with that informant should
cease, and the reasons should be noted in his/her informant package This information will be
disseminated throughout the narcotic enforcement community
When a case agent determines it necessary, informants will be checked through LACRCIC/WSIN
to see if they have been "blackballed" before utilizing them
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J. Shooting Incidents
Any member of IRNET who discharges his weapon during the performance of duty will
immediately notify the.
1 Jurisdictional agency of the area in which the discharge took place
2. IRNET lieutenant, or on-call Sheriffs Duty Captain
a San Bernardino Sheriff s Duty Matrix and current officer -involved policies and
procedures shall be complied with
3 The respective department's Watch Commander from which the officer is employed
In those cases where death or serious injury is related to an officer -involved shooting or
the operation of a motor vehicle, the jurisdictional agency will handle the full investigation
according to departmental policy and procedure
4 IRNET MOU does not supersede the policy of any member agency.
K Evidence
1. Collection, Storage, and Testing
The facilities of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department will be utilized by
IRNET to maintain a proper evidence chain on all items collected in pursuit of case
preparation All evidence obtained during an investigation will be tagged and placed into
an appropriate evidence locker without unnecessary delay
In addition, when handling seized narcotics or money, no less than two (2) officers will be
detailed to move or count such contraband Further, at no time, after seizure and before
placement in secure storage will less than two (2) officers be allowed to maintain security
on such items
As a matter of routine, the seized currency will be placed into a plastic bag designed for
that purpose. This receptacle will be sealed, dated, and initialed by the case agents and
only opened by the appropriate federal or state agency.
Under normal circumstances, currency seized because of IRNET investigations will be
forfeited through a state or federal government agency Because of this, the money will be
turned over as soon as possible after the seizure, and they will conduct an exact count of
the cash Any deviation from these procedures will require the prior approval of the IRNET
lieutenant
Page 117
ARTICLE X. FISCAL GUIDELINES
A. Payroll Checks and Balances
1. Payroll
Their respective agency will pay all personnel assigned to IRNET
2. Sick Time
All personnel will utilize sick time following their respective agency's policies and
procedures
Reporting of sick time will be made to the IRNET supervisor. IRNET will notify the
officer's agency to ensure proper notification and timekeeping
3 Overtime
All personnel will attempt to contact/notify the supervisor for approval before working
overtime
All personnel will, as required, work beyond their normal workday or respond on call -outs
as deemed necessary by the IRNET lieutenant or supervisor
Each local agency will have any overtime worked by their respective personnel assigned
to IRNET reimbursed by the HIDTA grant, up to the federal cap on overtime
reimbursement All overtime worked after HIDTA funds are expended will be the sole
responsibility of each respective agency
B. Fiscal and Voucher Procedure
Investigative funds are those authorized expenditures incurred by officers while working
undercover or on surveillance They must directly relate to the continuing development of
an investigation or informant The Sheriff of San Bernardino County will provide for the
initial funding of this item, and funds will be distributed from the Sheriff's Department
Special Appropriation Fund.
A voucher will include a statement as to the reason the money was expended By signing
the voucher, the officer is attesting to the validity and necessity of the expenditure
a Date
b Amount
c Reason(s)
d Signature of requester
It shall be submitted to a Sergeant for review and authorization signature of the IRNET
lieutenant.
Page 1 18
ARTICLE XI. SIGNATURE PAGES
Calafornia Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
The signatures affixed below signify the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control agrees to
the contents of this Memorandum
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
Kathleen Barnes, Division Chief
California Department of Alcohohc Beverage Control
Page 19
//y/D-o
Date
Drug Enforcement Admcncstrataon
The signatures affixed below signify the Drug Enforcement Administration agrees to the contents of this
Memorandum
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
Wade Shannon, Special Agent in Charge
Drug Enforcement Administration
Page 1 20
3"3-Zd 20
Date
Federal Bureau of Investigations
The signatures affixed below signify the Federal Bureau of Investigations agrees to the contents of this
Memorandum.
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET).
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed ► - low signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
Voviette D Morga '.'" ecial Agent in Charge
Federal Bureau . In a igation
Page 1 21
01 A/
1 .te
Montclair Police Department
The signatures affixed below signify the Montclair Police Department agrees to the contents of this
Memorandum
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
Robert Avels, Chief of Police Date
Montclair Pohce Department
Page 1 22
Ontario Police Department
The signatures affixed below signify the Ontario Police Department agrees to the contents of this
Memorandum
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum.
Derek Williams, Chief of Police
Ontario Police Department
Page 1 23
Date
Redlands Police Department
The signatures affixed below signify the Redlands Police Department agrees to the contents of this
Memorandum.
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
Chris Catren, Chief of Police
Redlands Police Department
Page 124
S/1l /7off,
Date
Riverside County Sheriffs Department
The signatures affixed below signify the Riverside County Sheriff's Department agrees to the contents of
this Memorandum
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
Chad Bianco,/ eriff-Coroner
Riverside Co -Linty Sheriff's Department
Page 1 25
Date
San Bernardino Police Department
The signatures affixed below signify the San Bernardino Police Department agrees to the contents of
this Memorandum.
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for
the Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
affixed below signify our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
za
Inc McBride, Chief of Police Date
San Bernardino Police Department
Page 1 26
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department
The signatures affixed below signify the agencies agreed to the contents of this Memorandum
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers
affixed bel
th
ive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
r agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
John ahon, Sheriff -Coroner
San - r ardino County Sheriff's Department
Page 127
/2-/P
Date
U S Department of Homeland Security
The signatures affixed below signify the U S Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security
Investigations (HSI), agrees to the contents of this Memorandum.
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and procedures for the
Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers of the Executive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the signatures
offd-bc _w signify our agrepent to the conten of this Memorandum
JAN 3 0 2020
Robert Goetsch, (ssistant Special Agent in Charge Date
Homeland Security Investigations
Page 1 28