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SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING STRIKE FORCE
VOLUNTARY COOPERATIONMUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
(September 2012)
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
r 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 Money Laundering Strike Force for the
purposes and goals indicated.
Parties To This Agreement:
--The Office of.the State Attorney of the Eleventh - -The Village of Indian Creek Police Department,
Judicial Circuit of Florida, - -T.he City of North Miami Police Department,
- -The City of.Coral Gables•Police Department,. - -The City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department,
- -The City of Miami Police Department, - -The City of Davie Police Department,
- -The City of Miami Shores Police Department - -The City of Hialeah Police Department,
- -The City of Miami Beach Police Department, - -The Town of Surfside Police Department,
- -The City of Hallandale Police Department, - -The City of Doral Police Department,
- -The City of Golden Beach Police Department, - -The Monroe County Sheriff's Office.
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 Money
Laundering 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 members 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
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 2 of 36 Pages
member was performing. duties inside the member's jurisdiction as provided by the "Florida
Mutual Aid Act" and this Agreement.
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 chief's 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.
i
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
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Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 3 of 36 Pages
that the Strike Force remains dedicated to its mission and primary' goal of dismantling
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.
& 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 lieutenant 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.
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
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Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 4 of 36 Pages
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 by 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.
r 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. eng 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
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 5 of 36. Pages
' 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 participaion 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)(x), 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
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
1 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
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Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
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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
y el. Use of Strike Force resources to provide "peres" or
and operational support personn
benefits beyond that which personnel assigned to the Strike Force would not otherwise e
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
64 hours per month, of officers, agents, analysts, on 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 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
4 administrative expenses so. incurred.
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
voluntary cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page Tof 36 Pages
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- byrcase basis the adjustment of one or
more distributions of forfeiture funds to Strike Force participating agencies to specifically
in 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 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 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.
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
t 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
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force,
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012).
Page 8 of 36 Pages
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.
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
r 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
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Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 9 of 36 Pages
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.
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.
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 10 of 36 Pages
{ •
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 in 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, a DEA Agent) must receive notification of any intended interstate
movement of funds prior to the actual movement of. the funds. The federal agent, upon
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,
trbnsaction(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 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
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
t 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.
° South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 11 of 36 Pages
3 .
S r
(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, FDLE's "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, LIABILITYAND 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 Money Laundering
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 Money
Laundering 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 Money Laundering 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
I r damage to its equipment, vehicles, or property so provided. Parties, understand and agree
that they will be 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 .
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Pape 12 of 36 Pages
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 extraterritori ally
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 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 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.
South Florida.Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 13 of 36 Pages
r 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 reallocated to address observed deficiencies or to otherwise better
assure the balanced success of the primary Strike Force efforts.
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
1 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 at least one
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 14 of 36 Pages
other participating Agency. As each additional Party executes this Agreement, it shall be
effective as to the newly executing Party. Upon execution, this Agreement supercedes
: previous versions of the agreements. Failure by a Party to secure a timely ratification of
„. this superceding 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,
2015, 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, 2015, 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.
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, SFMLSF
z 11200 NW 20' 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 SFMLSF 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 Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 15 of 36 Pages
1
t
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 16 of 36 Pages
I
Party's Acceptance of September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING STRIKE '
FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTU 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 Beach Police Department.
aA
Signa�dre
IC A�",}�L G 9 1 'tZ
Print or Type Name
Title:
L M
Chief Executive Officer, to wit: 4
.Date:
� r
.� Q
Chief of Police ?
e
Date:
i APPROVED AS TO
FORM & ANGUAGE .
&FOR PECUTION
= CITY'AT.IORNEY� DATE
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 201 2)
Page 19 of 36 Pages
authorized representatives of Parties hereto sign
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the
on 'the date specified hereafter.
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOP ERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
Pursuant to F. S. 23.1225(3), this agreement may be entered into by a sheriff, a mayor chief
executive officer of a municipality or county on behalf of a law enforcement agency, if authh orized
of the municipality or county. - By signing below, an indication of such
by the governing body
authorization is being made.
ature page any further evidence of authorization you wish
Any signatory may attach to this sign
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 Coral Gables police Department.
Signature .
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Mayor
0 .Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:..
Chief of Police
Date:
' South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 17 of 36 Paoes
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
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 Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Mayor
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date.
.Chief of Police
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 18 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AfD AGREEMENT
j
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
Print or Type Name
Title: '
D Mayor
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
Chief of Police
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 20 of 36 Pages
- I
Party's Acceptance of the September 2 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREE
3
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 Hialeah Police Department.
Signature
A
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Mayor
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
Chief of Police
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 21 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
I ,
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.remaln 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 Shores Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name .
Title:
0 Mayor
Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
Chief of Police
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 22 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
i
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 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 Surfside Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
D Mayor
Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
Chief of Police
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 23 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September. 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
# 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.
l 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 Fort Lauderdale Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
`v
Title:
0 Mayor,
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
Chief of Police
Date:
F ..
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force J
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page.24 of 36 Pages _
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
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 Davie Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Mayor.
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
Chief of Police
Date: 4 .
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 25 of 36 Pages
F Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MOLAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AIEEMENT .
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 er>ter.into this Agreement on behalf of the
City of Doral Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Mayor
0,, Chief Executive Officer, to wit.
Date:
Chief of Police
Date:
d
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012) .
Page 26 of 36 Pages
J
- 1
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
Pursuant toy 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
Monroe County Sheriffs Office.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Sheriff.
L1 Chief Executive Officer, to wit.
Date:
Sheriff (if above signed by Chief Executive Officer of County)
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 27 of 36 Pages
E !t' s �A �Ian �el he September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING OLUN TARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
Pursuant to F.S. 231225(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
Golden Beach Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
' n Sheriff
11 Chief Executive Officer, to wit.
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 28 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
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
Hallandale Beach Police Department.
Signature
Print or Type Name
Title:
0 Sheriff
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
y
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 29 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September "2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
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 l 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
Print or Type Name
Title:
Ci .Sheriff
0 Chief Executive Officer, to wit:
Date:
South Florida Money Laundering Strike, Force'
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 30 of 36 Pages
Party's Acceptance of the September 2012 SOUTH FLORIDA MONEY LAUNDERING
STRIKE FORCE VOLUNTARY COOPERATION MUTUAL AID AGREEMENT
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:
_____________________ _ _ _ _ __ _ End of Signature Pages, Attachments Follow----- -------------------------------
--- ------- - - - - -- -
M i
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 31 of 36 Pages
1 0
ATTACHMENT A
{ Str�ke'Force Forfeitures and Seizures D�recfive`(Rev 10/06)
A. FORFEITURE - means anything that is taken into custody by the SFMLSF
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 p roperty that is taken under forfeiture will be:
a. Placed into the Coral Gables Police Department Property Unit.or,
as in ca-se of vehicles, recorded on Coral Gables Police
Department Vehicle Storage Reports after inventory , search. (See-
attached Coral Gales Police Department Policy number #050)
b. All property will be listed in thie =oral 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 anyi ing 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 SFMLSF 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 SFMLSF ZY Entry Form.
This form is to be completed by the case agent.
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 32 of 36 Pages
a ; � ATT�ICHMENT B
.I ; Strike�Force EVidence D�recfi.ve _
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.). C ontr o ll ed substances w i l l
Coral Gables Police Departent Property Unit prior
always be checked Into the
to the end of the investigator's tour of duty.
D. Tests of controlled substances to establish probabl
re sult s
I cau will b
en in the
done t the
scene. by the impounding Investigator a n
SFMLSF 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.
r
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 33 of 36 Pages
'_ ATTACHMENTry C � ,
I; Florida's Mandatory StateWll ..orteiture ;, uid One
s f
Tq ALLFIoritla Law Eriforceiriei5t A'gencie5 lnde,pendent:,of,Thfs Agreement)
x (These Apply _
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 , includ
, ing 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 clearly 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
de fundamental considerations such as
potential for obtaining revenues from forfeitures must not overri
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
niform Standards is to provide statewide guidelines for law enforcement policies
The purpose of these U
and procedures used in seizing, maintaining, and forfeiting property the Act and to provide training
ty u
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 e not
es to forfei
the intent or purpose of these Standards to create new rights of parties or new defensture
actions. All rights and actions are defined by the. substantive provisions of the Act itself or other
applicable law.
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Page 34 of 36 Pages
Ill. 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 orother compensation of a, law enforcement officer or
attorney should not depend on obtaining a quota of
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.
er
F. Every seizing agency should have policies release of such property when there is no
be required
legitimate basis for holding seized property, the prompt
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 accorde with the purpose until the rights to,
does not interest
operty are perfected In accordance
and title to the seized pr
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.
forcement use should be maintained and utilized in
►. All forfeited property retained for law en
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 adfinancial audits
d and a ll te e st its
expenditures. If the seizing agency is a county or municipal agency, the
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 agen of that
property, as well as s, eteements and
es of forfeiture
shall periodically review the agency's seizures
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
✓i and these Standards.
L Agencies should avoid o he p e eds dery o from sp ri property. racquisition, sale, retention or
transfer of any forfeited property p ro
South Florida Money Laundering Strike Force
Voluntary cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012)
Paoe 35 of 36 Paaes
1 •
M. Agency personnel involved in the seizure of property for forfeiture shall receive periodic training
as noted in Section IV, below.
iV. Training Procedures for
Each .state or local "law enforcement agency shall ensure ntinuint its involved in property
Each
forfeiture under the Act receive basic training and co 9
agency shall maintain records demonstrating
legal t aspect o`f forfeiture, l i
nc ud ng search) requirements,
and seizure, or,
s other
portion of such training must a
constitutional considerations.
(End of Mandatory Forfeiture Guidelines). .
End of September, 2008 Mutual Aid Agreement and Attachments
South Florida Money Laundering ^Strike Force
Voluntary Cooperation Mutual Aid Agreement (September 2012).
Page 36 of 36 Pages