| ITEM #: 4. DATE: 09/14/2026 AI #:3439 |
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CITY COUNCIL ACTION REPORT
| SUBJECT: | APPROVAL OF THE DRUG ENFORCEMENT AGENCY (DEA) EQUITABLE SHARING AGREEMENT AND ANNUAL CERTIFICATION AFFIDAVIT |
| STAFF PRESENTER(S): | Brian Issitt, Chief of Police |
SUMMARY
The Agreement with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) allows the city of Goodyear Police Department to partner with the DEA for drug-related investigations. As part of the task force, the department participates in the DEA Equitable Sharing Program, which is managed by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Station (MLARS). MLARS requires annual certification of the Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification (ESAC) Affidavit prior to allocating asset forfeiture funding to the city of Goodyear.
STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT
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RECOMMENDATION
Approve the Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification (ESAC) with Department of Justice, and provide authorization and direction to the Mayor, or designee and City Manager, or designee, to take actions and execute the necessary documents to carry out the intent of the agreement. (Brian Issitt, Chief of Police)
FISCAL IMPACT
Any officer assigned to the DEA task force is currently covered by the police department's FY2027 budget. The city's participation in this task force qualifies the police department for the associated Equitable Sharing Program which allows the Department of Justice (DOJ) to allocate a portion of asset forfeitures to the city. These funds will be tracked within the existing Racketeering Influence and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) object codes.
BACKGROUND AND PREVIOUS ACTIONS
On October 24, 2022, Council approved the city of Goodyear Police Department to participate in the DEA Task Force for a period of five years, ending September 30, 2026. This task force allows the Goodyear Police Department to provide one officer to assist the DEA with cases within the valley, including the city of Goodyear. If participation in the task force results in a federal forfeiture, the department may file to receive a portion of the forfeiture. To participate in the equitable sharing program, the department must submit the ESAC form and affidavit to the MLARS. Once this form has been reviewed and accepted, the department is placed into compliance.
STAFF ANALYSIS
The city's participation in the DEA Task Force allows both the local and federal law enforcement agencies to share resources, intelligence information, and expertise related to the trafficking of narcotics and dangerous drugs in the State. The task force agreement allows the Goodyear Police Department to continue to participate in the task force. The city's continued participation in the task force will also allow the city to participate in the DOJ Equitable Sharing Program and receive federal forfeiture funds if available. The city's participation in the Equitable Sharing Program requires the approval and execution of the DOJ ESAC, included as Attachment A, which certifies the police department is in compliance with applicable nondiscrimination requirements. The ESAC also certifies that the police department will only use asset forfeiture funds for approved purposes, which include support for law enforcement operations, equipment, investigations, training, and education. Staff is seeking authorization from the Mayor and the City Manager or their designees to execute the associated ESAC Affidavit.