HomeMy WebLinkAboutG- 5 Approve purchase of 13 Pro Tech Trimax 3 IIIA Stealth Gold Tactical Vest of Azus- F � * I The City��e
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Agenda Item
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Bob Garcia, Interim Chief of Police
Via: Rick Cole, City Manager
Date: December 6, 1999
Recommendation:
Approve the purchase of(13)ProTech TRIMAX 3 IIIA Stealth Gold Tactical Vests for the Azusa
Police Department S.W.A.T. team from the lowest bidder in the amount of$26,348.50.
Summary:
The Azusa Police Department's current Special Weapons and Tactics(SWAT)team was established
in 1985 by former Captain Phil Russo,Lt. Felix Noriega(retired)and Sgt. Bob Termath. The team's
mission is to establish control of potentially hostile situations and ensure optimal safety for everyone
involved. The primary function of the team is to serve high risk and unknown risk search and/or arrest
warrants. On average, the team serves approximately (20) warrants annually. Team members also
participate in Area D platoon training and assist in Area D requests for mutual aid assistance.
The SWAT team is comprised of(13)members; 1 Lieutenant,2 Sergeants,and 10 Officers. The team
trains on average 10 hours monthly, members attend a 48 hour basic SWAT school, and receive
specialized training when available. Additionally, team members must pass the rigorous obstacle
course established by the Los Angeles County Special Enforcement Bureau, annually.
One of the most fundamental and critical pieces of equipment issued to SWAT officers is his/her
tactical vest. Most SWAT teams utilize ballistic rated tactical vests, but due to financial constraints,
the Azusa SWAT team opted for non-ballistic rated load bearing vests and used department issued
soft body armor underneath.Essentially,this means that the Azusa SWAT vest is ballistically inferior.
Moreover, the existing Azusa vests are now over 11 years old and their pocket system is antiquated
and not compatible with the equipment currently issued. These vests must be replaced in order for
team members to safely confront potentially hostile situations.
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Phone#(626)812-3200 * 725 North Alameda Avenue,Azusa, California 91702-2504 * FAX#(626) 334-6843
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The new ProTech system offers superior ballistic rating, more coverage of vital organs, a modular
snap and velcro pocket system which will accommodate the team's current equipment, and allows
for flexibility as technology develops. Furthermore, each team member will be able to arrange his/her
pocket system to best suit their needs rather than having a fixed system.
Fiscal Impact:
As a result of the significant drug money seizure($611,475.00 of which$458,327.07 was ultimately
received by the City)by Officer Steve Hunt on February 2, 1998,this purchase will be funded entirely
by the asset forfeiture account and will not impact the General Fund. The expenditure of asset seizure
funds for this specialized equipment is consistent with the strict Federal guidelines regarding its use.
Prepared by:
Sam Gonzalez, Lieutenant
SWAT Commander