1991 AGN MAY 28 I23 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CITY OF COLTON AGENDA REPORT For Council Meeting of May 28, 1991 TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council FROM: JACK H. STRATTON, CHIEF OF POLICE SUBJECT: PURCHASE OF SURVEILLANCE VEHICLE Date: 5-6-91 The Colton Police Department is often hampered in its ability to effectively and secretly observe suspected drug activities or other criminal activities. A surveillance van, properly equipped, would be a beneficial asset to the department and community. STATEMENT OF PROBLEM Criminals, especially drug dealers and traffickers, are becoming more sophisticated today than ever. They are knowledgeable in the use of anti -surveillance techniques, as well as the use of electronic equipment to reveal police observation. These activities make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to covertly watch illegal activities without the risk of detection by using traditional methods. To substantially reduce the risk and further enhance our abilities to effectively monitor illegal activity and impact the criminal world, the purchase of a sophisticated surveillance vehicle is essential. This unit would be equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to watch and properly record illegal activities. Although the equipment is to be state-of-the-art, it needs to be designed to be effectively and easily used by all members of the agency. This vehicle is also designed to blend into our community surroundings. Such a vehicle and equipment has been selected and designed to meet the needs of the Colton Police Department. ALTERNATIVES The department can continue to use present methods and resources to conduct narcotic surveillances. Although these methods are quite historical and do have a proper use, a surveillance vehicle would enhance surveillance techniques. The department could also purchase other surveillance vehicle models, but comparisons show that they are not as effectively designed and do not provide "officer protection" devices in the interior. Attachments: Page 1 of_ 2 Item No. a ug HLE W. 1300 i--------------. -