Title
Authorization to Expand E-Warrant System with Maricopa County Superior Court (Ordinance S-45754)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to allow the Phoenix Police Department (PPD) to enter into an intergovernmental agreement with the Maricopa County Superior Court (MCSC) to expand the e-warrant application to include the "person-place-things" search warrant. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item. The aggregate contract value is $26,000.
Report
Summary
The PPD, in partnership with the MCSC, initiated Phase 1 of the e-warrant project, DUI E-Warrant, in 2012. The MCSC provides a secure internet connection to be used during the e-warrant process. The software utilized for the e-warrant system was created by the MCSC and is maintained by them. The use of e-warrant for DUIs reduced the wait time from an average of one to two hours to an average of 10 minutes. The time saved using the e-warrant system allows the officers to return to service quicker and expedites the collection of evidence, which is perishable in nature.
The use of the e-warrant system allows officers to author a search warrant anywhere there is an internet connection and send the warrant electronically to the Initial Appearance Judge for review and signature. The return of the search warrant is completed using the same technology. This process eliminates the need for a fax machine and/or the need to travel to the court for signatures.
With this expansion, detectives can initiate the processing and collecting of evidence much sooner, allowing the crime scene to be released more quickly as well. This electronic process will better serve the families of victims, as they do not have to wait several hours to get back into their homes based solely on detectives waiting for a warrant.
Procurement Information
In accordance with Administrative Regulation 3.10, normal competition is being waived as a result of a Special Circumstance Without Competition Determination Memo. The MCSC is the owner of the e-warrant system, therefore, it is the sole entity that can make changes to the system.
Contract Term
The contract term will begin on or about July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020.
Financial Impact
Expanding the e-warrant system will require 320 hours of programming at a cost of $26,000. Funds are available in the Police Department's operating budget.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
This item was recommended for approval by the Public Safety and Veterans Subcommittee by a vote of 4-0 on May 14, 2019.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Milton Dohoney, Jr. and the Police Department.