An FY 14, $256,253 grant from the U.S. Dept. of Justice funds the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children (MTICAC) program.  This grant supports the Billings Police Department and thirteen affiliated agencies in the education, investigation, and prosecution of on-line child exploitation and pornography cases.  In February 2014, philanthropist, Michael Goguen contacted the MTICAC and expressed an interest to support enforcement operations through a financial donation.  Mr. Goguen pledged two million dollars ($2,000,000) over the next five years to support MTICAC operations state-wide.  Funds will be used for equipment, personnel, and logistical support. Council approval is required because the Billings Police Department is fiduciary for the MTICAC task force. 

The City Council may:

• Approve the donation in the amount of two million dollars to the MTICAC over a five year period; or
• Not approve the donation in the amount of two million dollars to the MTICAC over a five year period, which would result in fewer resources to investigate and prosecute internet based child exploitation and pornography cases.

These donations will afford the MTICAC task force more resources to educate, investigate, and prosecute on-line child exploitation and pornography cases.

Staff recommends that the City Council accept the donation from Michael Goguen in the amount of two million dollars ($2,000,000) over a five (5) year period to support the MTICAC.