HomeMy WebLinkAboutContracts & Agreements_130-2018SAN BERNARDINO
COUNTY
Interoffice Memo
DATE. July 20, 2018 PHONE (909) 387-3649
FROM. Robert O'Bnne, Captain
San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department
TO. Shannon Dicus, Undersheriff
San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department
SUBJECT
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING: INLAND REGIONAL NARCOTICS
ENFORCEMENT TEAM (IRNET)
RE ANNUAL EQUITABLE SHARING AGREEMENT CERTIFICATION (ESAC)
PARTIES:
> San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department
> Riverside County Sheriffs Department
> Redlands Police Department
> Ontario Police Department
> Homeland Security Investigations
> Fontana Police Department
> Montclair Police Department
> San Bernardino Police Department
> Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
SUMMARY
Annually, the Equitable Sharing Agreement Certification (ESAC) must be submitted to the
Department of Justice/Treasury by agencies that participate in federal asset forfeiture A
requirement set forth is a signed MOU related to the Department's inclusion in the IRNET
task force The Department serves as the lead agency for the task force
No changes have been made to the MOU since it was last signed in July of 2017
REVIEW
The MOU was reviewed by the following eople
> Miles Kowalski, General Counsel
> Rick Luczak, Meet & Confer Counsel
> Robert Wickum, Deputy Chief
> Robert O'Bnne, Captain — Bureau of Administration
> Ernie Perez, Lieutenant — IRNET V
RECOMMENDATION
Robert O'Bnne recommends that the Department approve the MOU
UNDERSHERIFF REVIEW
Date -712S /18
ATTACHMENTS
> Final draft of MOU
MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING
Inland Regional Narcotics
Enforcement Team
(IRNET)
Revised 04/26/17
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
ARTICLE I. NAME 1
ARTICLE II. PURPOSE 1
ARTICLE III. EXECUTIVE BOARD 1
ARTICLE IV. AMENDMENTS TO THE MEMORANDUM 1
OF UNDERSTANDING
ARTICLE V. DISTRIBUTION FROM FORFEITURE ACTIONS 2
AND SEIZURE OF ASSETS
ARTICLE VI ORGANIZATIONAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
A. Site Location 2
B Structural Command 2
C Case Initiation 2
D Enforcement Manpower 2
E Prosecutonal Support 3
F. Equipment Pool 3
G Request for Assistance 3
H Reporting Format 3
I Undercover Documents 3-4
J Operating Standards 4
K. Personnel 4
L. Life of this Agreement 4
ARTICLE VII. FISCAL PROCEDURE
A Special Appropnation Fund 4-5
B Asset Shanng 5
ARTICLE VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINES
A Case Information 5
B Document Security 5-6
C Undercover Documentation 6
D. Firearms 6
E Qualification 6
F Other Defensive Equipment 7
G Press Release 7
H Release of Information 7-8
I Multi -Agency Admimstrative Concerns 8-9
J. Admimstrative Policy 9
ARTICLE IX. INVESTIGATIVE GUIDELINES
A Outside Agencies - Requests for Assistance 9
B Notification 9-10
C Undercover Operations 10-12
D. Use of Intoxicating Beverages/Drugs 12-13
E Investigative Expenses 13-14
F Confidential Informant Procedures 14-16
G Informant Identification 16
H Planning Operations Involving Informants 16
I Undesirable Informants 16
J Shooting Incidents 17
K Evidence 17
ARTICLE X. FISCAL GUIDELINES
A Payroll Checks and Balances
B Fiscal and Voucher Procedure
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18-20
ARTICLE I. NAME
A The name of this orgamzation shall be the Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team
(IRNET).
ARTICLE II PURPOSE
A. The purposes of this organization are
1. The identification and conviction of high-level drug traffickers and the seizure of
assets derived through drug trafficking
2 The targeting, investigation and prosecution of mdividuals who organize, direct,
finance, or otherwise engage in high-level drug trafficking enterpnses, or money
laundering with high pnonty emphasis on those subjects engaged in the importation
of drugs for sale mto San Bernardino and Riverside Counties
3 The promotion of coordinated drug enforcement efforts throughout the Inland
Region, encouraging maximum cooperation between all law enforcement and
prosecutonal agencies
ARTICLE III. EXECUTIVE BOARD
A The affairs of this organization will be directed by an Executive Board The members of
this Board will be the Sheriff of San Bernardino County, the Shenff of Riverside County,
the Chiefs of all participating Pohce Departments, and the Special Agents in Charge of the
participating federal and state law enforcement agencies and/or their designees
B Starting January 1, 2017, the IRNET Executive Board will attempt to meet on a tnmester (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 Program Manager's request to maintain this requirement
Meetings will include the following agenda items. budget review, overtime expenditures,
case review and new business items
ARTICLE IV AMENDMENTS TO THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING
A The Executive Board may amend any Article of this Memorandum of Understanding by a
two-thirds (2/3) vote of the quorum
1
ARTICLE V. DISTRIBUTION FROM FORFEITURE ACTIONS AND SEIZURE OF
ASSETS
A 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
It is agreed that a sharing of assets seized will be divided based on the participating agencies'
respective contribution to the effort The following formula, determmed by mutual consent, will be
utilized
It is agreed that twenty-five percent (25%) of all assets will be returned to the program to recover
operating costs It is agreed that the remaimng seventy-five percent (75%) of any assets seized will
be divided and returned to eligible IRNET member agencies based on the number of personnel
committed.
Note:
These percentage figures must necessarily be applied after admimstrative costs are
deducted by the appropnate federal or state agency mvolved in the forfeiture
proceeding
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 Program Manager will be a designee from the San Bernardino Shenffs Department
with the rank of lieutenant or higher, reporting directly to the Board on all matters of IRNET
concern
C Case Initiation
All IRNET investigations shall regularly be reviewed by the Program Manager or his
designee Areas of discretion in the setting of pnonties for these cases will be determined
by, but not limited to, the type of enterprise, the impact on the community, current case load,
available manpower and/or 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 jomtly on major drug trafficking Personnel shall
be limited to 50 officers plus the Program Manager, Assistant Program Manager, and
support staff
2
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
In order 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 m certam instances
could best be achieved by allowing the program direct access to one (1) attorney
assigned for that specific purpose
F. Equipment Pool
The resource inventory required for this program, including but not limited to, vehicles,
radio equipment, specialized items, unique vehicles, and mobile devices will be supphed by
IRNET members. Office equipment (desks, chairs, typewriters, file cabinets, phones,
computers, office supplies, etc ) will be supphed by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's
Department
IRNET will not supply vehicles to personnel assigned to the task force Member agencies
should assign vehicles appropnate for use in covert surveillance operations. All vehicle
maintenance over $500 00 (per incident) shall be the responsibility of the member agency.
IRNET will cover costs associated with fuel and preventative services
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
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 numbenng system will be used as well m order to account for all activity
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
3
be such as to assure that they are properly accounted for at all times 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 mdividuals 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 to their fullest individual ability the development of mter-
agency cooperation
K. Personnel
The assignment of federal, state, and local officers to IRNET must be approved by their
respective department head The Program Manager, 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 Program Manager, 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 aforementioned policies or procedures conflict with their
own department rules and regulations, the individual member will immediately bnng said
conflict to the attention of his/her IRNET supervisor The supervisor will, in turn, bnng 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 it is signed by both parties of this agreement This
agreement may be terminated by either party on (30) days advanced written notice.
ARTICLE VII. FISCAL PROCEDURE
A. Special Appropriation Fund
A Special Appropriation Fund shall be established to which members of IRNET may charge
expenditures as necessary m the performance of the duties of the program In general, such
charges shall mclude extraordinary or special expenses incurred in the investigation of
major narcotics traffickers
4
The utilization, responsibility, accountability and control of this fund shall be determined
exclusively by the Program Manager and shall conform to standards as required by policy
and procedure for San Bernardino Shenff's Department Federal agencies will adhere to
federal law and respective agency policies and procedures for any expenditures and/or
reimbursements of expenses mcurred by or through the federal agent.
B Asset Sharing
IRNET will provide an audit trail which will show that the assets seized are being disbursed
m accordance with applicable state and federal law
A monthly Activity Report will be forwarded to each IRNET member agency which shall
include activity, seizures by month and year to date, and forfeitures awarded by month and
year to date to each participatmg agency
ARTICLE VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE GUIDELINES
A. Case Information
Large scale narcotics mvestigations are sensitive Protection of sources of information and
management of information about areas of narcotics/drug related activity are absolutely
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, m compliance with
Department of Justice guidelines.
Wntten 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 in a timely manner and will describe activities fully, exactly, and plainly All
case reports will be kept in the office 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
Questions about the appropriateness of releasing case information will be referred to the
Program Manager.
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
5
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 appropnate 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 Sheriff s Records Bureau
In any case, 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 Program Manager will mamtam 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 Program Manager may deem additional
documentation, such as credit cards, a credit rating with TRW, a passport or social
security card to support an 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 m accordance with his/her
department's policies and procedures. Officers may carry authorized firearms while off
duty, however, applicable departmental policies about the use of firearms shall apply
E. Qualification
Any firearm carried by an officer with IRNET must be approved by his/her department and
minimum departmental standards for qualification met If no departmental requirements
exist, the San Bernardino County Sheriffs Department standards will apply and officers will
qualify on a trimester schedule
6
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 m
accomplishing its purpose
3. Protective Garments
All officers with IRNET will have available a bullet-proof (protective) vest Officers
shall wear their vests m 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 in order to protect
the Constitutional Rights of the accused, avoid mterfermg with an IRNET investigation, or
because it is legally pnvileged
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 Program Manager will designate the "Press Information Officer." Members of IRNET
will not release information to the press unless otherwise directed to do so by the Program
Manager
H. Release of Information
The Program Manager will be available to assist m the dissemination or coordination of
such information The Information to be released will be determined by the facts of each
situation and at 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
a Type of crime (statutes violated, etc )
b 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 crmmmal 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 opimon as to the guilt or innocence of the accused
I Multi -Agency Administrative Concerns
1 Citizen Complaints
Any complaint from an individual alleging misconduct by personnel of IRNET will
be directed to the Program Manager or in his absence, a supervisor, and a wntten
report will be submitted to the Program Manager for evaluation
The Program Manager 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
It is recognized by IRNET 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
3 Injuries Sustamed 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 emergency situations, the officer will receive immediate
8
medical attention m the most expedient manner In order to assist the supervisors in
ensuring an officer's injury is treated without unnecessary delay, officers assigned to
IRNET will supply his supervisor with a packet containing the forms and applicable
instructions for processing per Sheriff's Department policies and procedures
4 On -Duty Motor Vehicle Accidents
a 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 Program Manager for
further review and necessary action. In any on duty motor vehicle accident,
whether injury or non -injury, the Program Manager will immediately notify
the member agency so they can notify their appropriate Risk Management/
Civil Liabilities Division per Sheriff's 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 Program Manager as soon as
practical after bemg received
The Program Manager will be informed of all requests for assistance made by non-
participating agencies.
IRNET recogmzes that the jurisdictional make-up of Southern California lends itself to
investigative overlay during the course of narcotics case development Therefore, IRNET
will strictly adhere to the following notification procedures in order to minimize any chance
of conflicting with the enforcement routine of the affected jurisdiction.
B. Notification
Pnor to actually openmg 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 In addition, IRNET will contact adjacent jurisdictions and
LACRCIC/WSIN to see if any agency has information on the subjects.
9
After opemng a case, IRNET will utilize the guidelines of LACRCIC/WS1N as to
identifymg the case and subjects being worked so as to facilitate communications between
investigating agencies and elimmate duplication of effort
Note:
IRNET will mamtam close communication with the affected jurisdiction
throughout its mvestigation 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 appropnate, 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 takmg 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 mtroducing undercover officers to narcotic traffickers in order to
purchase drugs or mfiltrate their organization In order to msure officer safety and proper
case development, the following guidelines will be adhered to (Federal agencies will
additionally observe DOJ guidelines)
1 Preparation and Planning
a Discuss the purpose and intention of the operation with your supervisor
Dependmg on the magnitude of the investigation, it may require pnor approval
through the Program Manager to the Executive Board.
2 Determine Logistical Needs
a Manpower
An IRNET supervisor will assess each case with the Program Manager to
determine if special tactics or the utilization of a special weapons team will be
required. Jurisdictional responsibihties will be recognized
10
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 All operational plans will be approved by
the Program Manager In cases involving narcotics delivenes out of state or
reverse operations more than 10 kilos in weight, the captain of the Narcotics
Division (SBCSD) will be notified before begmmng the operation
2 Plan Format
a. The wntten plan will include suspect information, criminal history,
pictures, vehicles, and associates
b A beef case history of the suspect's method of operation and other
criminal tendencies
c Maps, diagrams, and address
1 Clothing descnption
2 Undercover vehicle
3 Money flash vehicle
4 Clothing descnption of undercover officer and confidential
informant, if involved
5 Arrest and trouble signal (visual and audio)
11
d List of all officers involved, including their assignment and vehicle and
equipment responsibilities
e Copies of the plan will be distributed to all involved officers
f Notification of the law enforcement agency where the operation will
take place will be noted on the plan, including who was notified
g. Communication channel frequency for the operation and necessary
clearances from Central Dispatch. (An alternative frequency should be
included in case of communication problems on primary channel)
h Before starting, a complete bnefing will be conducted utilizmg the
wntten plan
i The Program Manager will approve all tactical plans prior to their
implementation
e Undercover Operation (U/C)
1 The U/C will not deviate from the wntten plan unless he/she is able to
obtam 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 absolutely 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 pnor supervisory approval.
5 The U/C officer will never meet with suspects in a narcotics
mvestigation without proper surveillance and cover units Notification
and approval of an IRNET sergeant is required pnor to any meeting
between a suspect and/or 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 Intoxicatmg 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
intoxicatmg beverages IRNET personnel, with the consent of their superior officer,
12
may drmk alcoholic beverages while on duty when necessary to accomplish a police
purpose
a IRNET personnel who have approval from a superior to drink while mvolved
m a covert operation must
1 Not dnnk to such a degree that their judgment may be impaired.
2. Not drive a vehicle after such assignment, until they have reached an
appropriate state of sobnety
b IRNET personnel will ensure that all persons under their control and who
have used alcoholic beverages are able to perform their tasks without
becoming a danger to themselves or others
2 IRNET officers shall not mamtam drugs or paraphernalia for their use, or provide
paraphernalia for use
3 IRNET personnel shall not use any narcotic or drug 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 senous 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, simulatmg the smoking of marijuana or the inhalation of
stimulant drugs
a As soon as possible after use or simulation, the officer will be exammed 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 Program Manager
4 The investigative staff will see that mformants 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).
13
1 Narcotic Purchases
IRNET officers will have the availability of expending funds for narcotics with pnor
supervisory approval
2 Program Maintenance
Will mclude meals, gasoline, lodging and money for confidential informants and/or
witnesses Another officer will be present while disbursmg 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 mstances, the officer can disburse funds and
later advise a supervisor of the circumstances
3 Operational Expenses
Will include officer expenses m an undercover capacity for food, gasolme, lodging,
vehicle rental, special equipment and any other item deemed necessary by the
supervisor in order 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 agencies policies while remaining m compliance with the below listed IRNET
policies
1 Informant Files
An IRNET coded file will be mamtained on each informant operative, which will
mmunally consist of the following
a. Background Information Sheet and Photograph
b CII and/or FBI Rap Sheet
c. A report of the prospective investigations m which officers anticipate
engagmg the informant
d A list of mvestigations in which the informant has participated
e De -briefing of current criminal activity that the mformant has knowledge of
f Copies of authorization and follow-up memorandums (if applicable)
g Informant files shall be kept pursuant to member agency policies and
procedures.
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h The IRNET Program Manager shall maintain a copy of informant files in
compliance with San Bernardino County Shenff s Department policy
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 Program Manager 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 General overview of proposed investigations (do not list suspect's name)
e The type of investigative assistance informant is expected to provide
(information, obtain evidence, 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 sentencmg can be made and
defendant must enter a guilty plea on the charges. Disposition and
sentencmg of the case with which he/she is presently charged will ultimately
be handled by the Court The District Attorney and IRNET can only make
recommendations based on their evaluation of the informant's participation in
the investigations.
g. Attachments
1 Informant's current CII and/or FBI Rap Sheet
2 Confidential Agreement Form
3 Consent Form
4 Copy of Crime Reports (if possible)
3. Follow-up Memorandum
At the completion of the investigations, a follow-up memorandum shall be wntten to
the District Attorney or United States Attorney outlining the informant's assistance
It will contain the following
a. Present status of case pending against informant.
b Investigations.
15
c General appraisal of aid rendered by informant (very successful, did not meet
commitment, seemed insincere, etc )
d In the event that an informant fails to meet his/her commitments and make
himself/herself available to and participate with the investigating officers, the
Program Manager and Distract Attorney or Umted States Attorney will be
advised immediately by inter -office memorandum. All follow-up
memorandums and status memorandums wntten to the Distnct Attorney or
United States Attorney concerning the Confidential Informants shall be
reviewed by the Program Manager and then hand -carved to the Distnct
Attorney or Umted States Attorney.
G. Informant Identification
1 The informant's identity must always be known to the supervisor and Program
Manager.
a. 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
b 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, manpower, 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 take action when there is
not enough manpower 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 will be checked through
LACRCIC/WSIN to see if they have been "blackballed" pnor to utilizmg 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 Program Manager (IRNET), or on call Shenff's 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 mjury is related to a 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 Sheriffs Department will be utilized by
IRNET to maintam 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 actually move or count such contraband Further, at no time, after
seizure and pnor to placement in secure storage will less than two (2) officers be
allowed to maintain security on such items
As a matter of routine, seized currency will be placed into a plastic bag designed for
that purpose This receptacle will be sealed, dated, and uutialed by the case agents
and only opened by the appropriate federal or state agency
Under normal circumstances, currency seized as a result 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 seizure and they will conduct an
exact count of the cash Any deviation from these procedures will require the prior
approval of the Program Manager
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ARTICLE X FISCAL GUIDELINES
A. Payroll Checks and Balances
1 Payroll
All personnel assigned to IRNET will be paid by their respective agency
2 Sick Time
All personnel will utilize sick time m accordance with 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 assure proper notification and time keeping
3. Overtime
All personnel will attempt to contact/notify the supervisor for approval prior to
working overtime
All personnel will, as required, work beyond their normal work day or respond on
call -outs as deemed necessary by the Program Manager or supervisor
Each local agency will have any overtime worked by their respective personnel
assigned to IRNET, reimbursed by the IRNET Operatmg Fund
B Fiscal and Voucher Procedure
1 Special Appropriation Fund
The Sheriff of San Bernardino County will absorb a majonty of the cost of IRNET
during the first 12-18 months of operation. Therefore, a special appropriation fund
consisting of twenty-five percent (25%) of all seizures will be returned to IRNET
IRNET will then disperse funds to the Shenff's Department until the advance to
IRNET is satisfied.
The utilization, responsibility, accountability, and control of this fund will be
determmed exclusively by the Program Manager
As surplus funds are accumulated, the Program Manager will report to the Executive
Board and a decision will be made on how to utilize the money
A monthly report will be forwarded to the Executive Board reflectmg the status of
the fund.
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2. Investigative Funds
Investigative funds are those authonzed expenditures incurred by officers while
workmg 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 fundmg of this item and will be reimbursed from
the Special Appropnation Fund
A voucher will include statement as to the reason the money was expended. By
signing the voucher, the officer is attesting to the validity and necessity for the
expenditure.
a Date
b Amount
c Reason(s)
d Signature of requester
It shall be subnutted to a Sergeant for review and authorization signature of the
Program Manager
3. End of Year Accounting
A full accounting of all expenditures will be made to the Executive Board by the end
of each year
4 Maintenance of the Fund
Pertinent accounting records will be made available to the Executive Board upon
their request for mspection and audit
5 Custodian of the Fund
The custodian of the fund is the Program Manager He or she will
a Have access to the fund
b Retain copies of cash advance form, expense vouchers, and receipts
applicable to the fund.
c Maintain lists of individuals authorized to draw moneys from the fund and
individuals authorized to approve advances and expenditures, will update
these lists as appropriate
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d Release cash to authonzed individuals upon receiving properly prepared and
approved forms
e Accept cash being returned to the fund and place in the safe and issue a
receipt as to relieve the person returning the cash of further responsibility
f. Perform any other duties referred to m this procedure or as may be deemed
appropnate in compliance with current San Bernardmo County Shenff s
Department fiscal procedures
This Memorandum of Understanding outlines the organizational operating policies and
procedures for the Inland Regional Narcotics Enforcement Team (IRNET)
As Officers,/ . f v e 'ecutive Board and representatives of the IRNET member agencies, the
signature r �� dlow sigmfy our agreement to the contents of this Memorandum
JO I T McMAHON, Sheriff -Coroner
Sa', : -rnardino County Shenff's Department
CHRISTOPHER R. CATREN, Chief of Police Date
Redlands Police Department