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HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES 24-154RESOLUTION NO. 24-154 CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BEAUMONT: WHEREAS, inkier the provisions of the Texas Transportation Code Chapter 1006 and Texas Administrative Code Title 43; Part 3; Chapter 57, entities are eligible to receive grants from the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority to provide financial support to law enforcement agencies for enforcement teams to combat Catalytic Converter Theft fiom Motor Vehicles in the jurisdiction; and, WHEREAS, this grant program will assist this jurisdiction to combat Catalytic Converter theft from motor vehicles; and, WHEREAS, City of Beaumont has agreed that in the event of loss or misuse of the grant fiends, City of Beaumont assures that the grant funds will be returned in full to the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE THAT the statements and findings set out in the preamble to this resolution are hereby, in all things, approved and adopted; and, THAT Kenneth Williams, City Manager, is designated as the Authorized Official to apply for, accept, decline, modify, or cancel the grant application for the Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority Grant Program and all other necessary documents to accept said grant; and, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Jolu1 Cross Sr., Lieutenant, is designated as the Program Director, and Cheryl Ray, Chief Financial Officer, is designated as the Financial Officer for this grant. The meeting at which this resolution was approved was in all things conducted in strict compliance with the Texas Open Meetings Act, Texas Governi ent Code, Chapter 551. 2024. PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL of the City of Beaumont this the 2nd day of July, "F. 6/20/24,12:27 PM Senate Bill 224 GrantAppllcatlon Watch Your. e. Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority The Application was submitted by Kenneth Williams at 6118/20241:14:53 PM and Is now locked. The confirmation Number Is 2024061000322, Primary Agency 1 Grantee Legal Name: City of Beaumont Organization Type: Law Enforcement Organization OR[ (if applicable): TX1230100. BEAUMONT PD (M1P) Program Title Please enter a short description of the proposed program that can be used as the title. Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force Application Category (See Request for Applications [RFA] for category details and descriptions RFA Priority Funding Section): pp New Grant - 2025 Is the first year of the MVCPA Catalytic Conveter Program Grants. All 2025 grant applicants use the new grant category. MVCPA Program Category (see RFA and TAC 43, 3 §57.14). Check all that apply. M Law Enforcement, Detection and Apprehension ❑ Prosecution, Adjudication and Conviction M Reduction of the Theft of Catalytic Converters ® Education Programs and Marketing Taskforce Grant Participation and Coverage Area Provide a General Description of the Participating and Coverage Area of this Grant Application Jefferson, Orange, Hardin, and Jasper Counties, and all municipalities within these counties. Define In the tables below the grant relationships and geographic area of the Catalytic Converter program: Applicant will add the participating and coverage agencles from the ORI list below. If an agency Is not In the OR[ list, please Include the agency and role In the general description above. Make sure to follow the definitions below and select an agency In the dropdown. Use the Add as Participating Agency or Add as Coverage Agency button to populate the list. Participating Agencies are agencies that materially participate In the grant application through the exchange of funds for reimbursement and cash match. Participating agencies are defined after the grant award by Interlocal/Interagency agreements. Each applicant must select their own agency first. Then select agencies that will receive or provide funding and/or resources. [Note: Interlocallinteragency agreements do not need to be submitted with the application. Interlocal agreements will need to be executed prior to the first payment being made if selected for a grant. Letters of support with the application from the participating agencies are strongly recommended j Coverage Agencies are agencies that provided some level of coverage, assistance or support by this grant application but will not materially exchange funds as cash match or reimbursement. The coverage is not supported by an after the award with Interlocallinteragency agreements. Coverage agencies as law enforcement agencies may have jurisdictional coverage agreements unrelated to the grant (Ex. City Y Is within County X or vice versa). Agencies selected In this list Include agencies that will be covered or where the agency Indicates that their agency will coordinate or call upon the program. Letters of support with the application from the participating agencies are strongly recommended. hilps:llmvcpa.ta mu.edu/CutalytirCoriva rterlAppllcaiion.asp?l =1 &FiscalYea r=2026&GranteelD =2&ApplD=322 1/9 6/20124, 12:27 PM Gniurf Ananrina fn Arid Senate BIII 224 GrantAppilcation Parflninnfinn AnvnnIes Cnveraon Annncies SeleclAgennles JEFFERSON CO SO HARDIN CO SO Q Not assoclated with any law enforcement entit, , BEAUMONT PD (MIP) KOUNTZE PD Anderson PORT ARTHUR PD (AE) SILSBEE PD ANDERSON CO SO (AE) [TX0010000] SOUR LAKE PD PALESTINE PD [rX0010100] LUMBERTON PD (IBR) FRANKSTON PD [rX0010300] JASPER CO SO Andrews JASPER PD ANDREWS CO SO [TX0020000] V v KIRBYVILLE PD Add as Participating Agencies Delete Selected Dslele selected Add as Coverage Agencies ❑ Other Coverage (Use If ORI not Ilsted or explanation Is necessary.): No text provided. ❑ National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICE) Used as Match (Documentation and time certlflcatlon required.) ❑ Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) ❑ Other State or Federal Agency (specify:) Resolution: Complete a Resolution and submit to local governing body for approval. Sample Resolution Is found in the Request for Application or send a request for an electronic copy to grantsMVCPA@txdmv.gov. The completed and executed Resolution must be attached to this on-line application. Grant Budget Form MVCPA recommends that the applicant complete the total costs (MVCPA and Cash Match combined) for this program. The applicant can then enter the desired amount of Cash Match (not less than 20% per TAC Title 43, R§57.36). The system will then calculate the correct grant and match amounts. Budget Entry Option: O Enter Total and let system calculate MVCPA Funds and Cash Match, Match Percentage: % @ Enter MVCPA and Cash Match Amounts Click on category name to edit budget detail for that category. Budget Category Personnel Fringe Overtime Professional and Contract Services Travel Equipment Supplies and Direct Operating Expenses (DOE) Total Cash Match Percentage Description Total Personnel Total Fringe Total Overtime Total Professional and Contract Services Total Travel MVCPA Expenditures $17,620 $233,000 $250,620 Subcategory Pot Time Personnel Fringe Overtime Professional and Contract Services Travel Cash Match Total Expenditures Expenditures $4,380 $21,900 $47,000 $280,000 $61,380 $301,900 20.61 % MVCPA Funds Cash Match Total In-Klnd Match In -Kind Match https:llmvcpa.tamu.edu/CatalytlrConvertorlAppilcation.asp?1 m 1&FiscalYear�2026&GranteelD=2&ApplD=322 2/9 6/20/24, 12:27 PM Senate Bill224 Grant Application MVCPA In -Kind Description Subcategory pet Time Funds Cash Match Total Match Equipment High Definition Night Vision Binoculars $5,340 $1,460 $6,800 Cordloss DOT Peen Marking System $6,240 $1,460 $7,700 Ariel Drone (UAV) $5,940 $1,460 $7,400 Total Equipment $17,520 $4,380 $21,900 Supplies and Direct Operating Expenses (DOE) FLOCK Cameras/LPR's (88) $233,000 $47,000 $280,000 Total Supplies and Direct Operating Expenses (DOE) $233,000 $47,000 $280,000 Budget Narrative F. Equipment High Definition Night Vision Binoculars (Pulsar HD XP50 Thermal Imaging) with built-in photo and recording capability. 2.5x-20x magnification with built -In wl-fl (2.515Ghz) allowing for streaming to a smariphone through the Stream Vision 2 Mobile Application. This equipment will be used for nighttime operations to detect Catalytic Converter thieves In larger areas, such as apartment complexes, hotel parking lots and fleet vehicle parking areas. ($6,800.00) Flymark Cordless Mint DOT Peen Marking System with an Integrated barcode scanner, from Rocklin Manufacturing Co. The system comes with two batteries, battery charger and protective carrying case. This system will be used to mark Catalytic Converters on vehicles with the corresponding VIN, which will be read by the barcode scanner and automatically populate the system with correct VIN to be stamped on the converter. ($7,700,00) DJI Mavic 3T Pius Combo: Comes with Mavic 3TAircraft (UAV) Mavic 3 Intelligent Flight Battery, mlcroSD Card 64GB, Gimbal Protector, Mavic 3 Enterprise Series Propellers (Pair) x3, RC Pro Enterprise controller, Screwdriver, USB-C Power Adapter (100W), 100W PowerAdaptor AC Cable, USB-C Cable, USB-C to USB-C Cable, Protector Case, DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Series RTK Module, DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Series Battery Kit for charging bafterles to prolong flight time. ($7,400,00) This drone has a conventional camera (56x Hybrid zoom), as well as, Thermal imaging (640x512 px), both of which can be viewed simultaneously. The flight time on one battery Is rated at 45 minutes. 3 additional batteries and a Series Charging Hub come with the package for extended flight time In more lengthy surveillance operations. ideally suited for nighttime operations. Video storage Is 64GB and the video can also be viewed remotely. ($7,400.00) G. Supplies and Direct Operating Expenses (DOE) The Task force is requesting funding for 88 FLOCK LPR/Cameras. 80 Short Range LPR/Cameras (80 @ $3,000.00 per year $240,000.00) and 8 Long Range LPR/Cameras (8 @ $5,000.00 per year $40,000) for a total of $280,000.00. This contract would be paid yearly and the equipment Is leased, so there would be no equipment Inventory or repairs to equipment. The Flock LPR/Camera system will be an Integral part of the Task Force Intelligence gathering network. This Intelligence will be used to Identify Catalytic Converter theft from a Motor Vehicle actors vehicles and Increase the probability of identifying actors to make arrests and recover stolen Catalytic Converters, Revenue Indicate Source of Cash and In -Kind Matches for the proposed program, Click on links to go to match detail pages for entry of data. Cast? Match Source of Cash Match City funds Grantee $51,380 Total Cash Match $51,380 In -Kind Match Statistics to Support Grant Problem Statement Reported Cases 2023 2024 Jurisdiction Catalytic Converter Theft Catalytic Converter Theft Beaumont PD 100 0 Jefferson County SO 4 0 Nederland PD 2 0 Orange PD 3 0 Pt Arthur PD 10 0 Kountze PD 0 0 Sour Lake PD 0 0 VIdor PD 0 0 Lumberton PD 3 0 hilps:llrnvepa,lamu.edulCeialytIcConverteriAppileat€on.asp?1=1&FIscalYear=2026&GranteolD=2&ApplD=322 319 6/20124, 12:27 PM Senate Bill 224 Grant Application AddiEdit Srallstics Application Narrative Grant Introduction (Executive Summary) and General Information 1 A Briefly describe the organization and program operation. Provide a high level summary to the application and how it will affect the local community. (500 words or less) The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force has been an Integral part of reducing motor vehicle crimes, Including the particularly disruptive issue of Catalytic Converter Theft, in Jefferson, Orange, Hardin, and Jasper Counties since 1993. Comprised of dedicated personnel from the Beaumont Police Department, Port Arthur Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, the task force has consistently worked to combat these crimes, which have significant economic and social Impacts on the affected communities. Catalytic Converter Theft not only causes financial losses for individuals and businesses but also disrupts essential activities such as work commutes, school runs, medical visits, and grocery shopping. The ripple effects extend to Industries like petrochemicals, which rely on uninterrupted transportation for their operations. To address this pressing Issue, the task force plans to leverage technology and force multipliers such as License Plate Readers (LPRs / Cameras), drones, and night vision binoculars, as wall as the Beaumont Pollee Department Real Time Crime,Center, to gather Intelligence on Catalytic Converter theft activities. Additionally, the task force will continue inspections of Metal Recycling Entities, Used Parts Dealers, and Salvage Yards and Repair Shops to identify any entities Involved In the Illegal purchase or sale of stolen Catalytic Converters, This Intelligence -gathering effort will utilize various sources, Including community Input, crime patterns, and trends analysis, as well as surveillance, covert operations, and tips from programs like Crime Stoppers. The Implementation of SB224, known as The Deputy Darren Almendarez Act, will enhance legal support to arrest and prosecute offenders Involved in Catalytic Converter Theft. By working closely with the judicial system, the task force aims to ensure thorough Investigations and maximize prosecution outcomes. Furthermore, community engagement and education initiatives will play a crucial role In preventing Catalytic Converter Theft. This Includes awareness presentations, marking events for Catalytic Converters, and fostering relationships with law enforcement agencies within and outside the coverage area to facilitate collaboration and Information sharing. Ultimately, the goal of the Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force Is to reduce Catalytic Converter theft and enhance the safety and security of all communities in the State of Texas through proactive enforcement, public education, and collaborative efforts. 1.2 Describe the taskforce governing, organization and command structures. Include a description of the nature of support and agreements that will be In place If the grant Is awarded. Provide any details unique to the taskforce organization or geographical target area. Describe whether any part of this grant will be directed to servo a specific target population (or subset of the community)? The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force Is a part of the Beaumont Police Department Criminal Investigations Division. There Is a Captain of the Division, with Lieutenants over the units In the Division. The Auto Theft Task Force has a Lieutenant over the unit, that Is also designated as the Commander / Program Director. The Lieutenant Is responsible for oversight of all aspects of the Auto Theft Task Force and the grant. The Task Force Commander has a Sergeant that Is designated as the Supervisor 1 Program Manager. The Sergeant Is responsible for case assignments, monthly reports, quarterly progress reports and all other daily 1 weekly / monthly supervisory duties pertaining to case Investigations, proposed activities or operations which further the grant goals and ensure that they are met. Investigators are responsible for case Investigations and all other duties that are assigned. There are four investigators from the Beaumont Police Department, one Investigator from the Jefferson County Sheriffs Department and one investigator from the Port Arthur Police Department. There will be Interlocal agreements In place with each of the four counties included In the coverage area, as well as the participating sub -grantee Departments, Jefferson County Sheriff's Department and Port Arthur Police Department. There will also be letters of agreement with the District Attorneys of each county In the coverage area. The four -county project area is comprised of numerous communities and according to the most recent US Census estimate (2020) the counties have a combined population of approximately 430,000, with nearly 60% residing In Jefferson County. The four -county project area Is in the southeast corner of the state, with a combined area of 2,361 square miles. There are 20 local law enforcement agencies In the coverage area. The major roadways which bisect. the coverage area are as follows: Interstate 10 goes directly through Orange and Jefferson Counties and Is the major southern coast to coast interstate highway In the United States. Highway 90 Is also a major highway which cuts through the center of the City of Beaumont east to west. State Highway 105 also comes through Beaumont from the northwest. Highway 69/98/287 is the major north south highway coming directly through Jasper and Hardin counties Into Beaumont and Port Arthur. There Is also Highway 73, which is south of Beaumont closer to the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and runs from Winnie, TX to near Orange, TX. The Port of Beaumont, the Port of Port Arthur and the Port of Orange are also In the coverage area. The Coverage area Is bounded by the Gulf of Mexico to the south and the Sabine River to the East, abutting the Louisiana state line In Orange County. The Neches River Is the waterway that is the eastern boundary of the City of Beaumont and empties into the Sabine River near the Gulf of Mexico. Beaumont Is the largest city along Interstate 10 between Houston and Baton Rouge, LA. The Beaumont area Is also the 6th most densely populated area In the Slate. The City of Beaumont has a population of 115,013. The estimated daytime population, according to TxDoT (Beaumont Commuting Area Reports Portal), swells to 135,805. That Influx of 20,792 also brings more vehicles Into the city Increasing the number of vehicles that become targets of Catalytic Converter Theft. There are over 100,000 vehicles per day that pass through the city limits of Beaumont on Interstate 10. (TXDOT TTP Web VlewerAADT) TXDOT reported there were over 390,000 vehicles registered within our four -county coverage area in 2021. More than half of these vehicles are in Jefferson County, which Is primarily urban and suburban areas. The four -county project area had 631 vehicles that suffered Catalytic Converter thefts for 2022 and 119 Catalytic Converter thefts reported for 2023. (Numbers obtained from project area agencies that had accurate records of Catalytic Converter thefts) According to Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation records, there are 11 licensed Metal Recycling Entities In the four -county coverage area. There are 12 Used Auto Parts Recyclers In the four -county coverage area. The entire population of the coverage area will be served by the task force. The amount of service will be dictated by the need for assistance from agencies In the coverage area, Investigations that lead to different specific areas and on the rise or fall In the frequency of Catalytic Converter Thefts In that specific community or geographic area. Grant Problem Statement 2.1 Provide an assessment of the Catalytic Converter Theft problem In the coverage area of this application. Include loss data consistent with the reported incident numbers above. hltps://mvcpa.lamu.edu/CatalytIcConverterlApplicallon.asp?l =1&FiscalYear=2025&GranteelD=2&ApplD=322 419 WW4, 12:27 PM Senate Bill 224 Grant ApplIcation The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force coverage area has experienced an enormous increase in Catalytic Converter theft since 2020. The thefts, driven by the price of precious metals, which are found in Catalytic Converters, such as Platinum, Palladium and Rhodium. The trace precious metals, which act as the catalysts In the converter, essentially convert/reduce the hydrocarbons In the exhaust of combustion engines, creating loss environmentally harmful emissions. The catalytic converters are harvested by street level criminals and then sold to "fences". These "middle men" In turn sell the converters to Metal Recyclers. Once the metals are melted and separated the Metal Recyclers can sell the precious metals, This market grew exponentially as prices of Rhodium, Palladium and Platinum soared In 2021-2023. This huge Increase in metal prices drove the Catalytic Converter theft market. Rhodlum prices surged from approximately $6,000 per ounce in early 2021 to over $20,000 per ounce by mid 2023. Palladium prices rose from around $2,000 per ounce in early 2021 to over $3,000 per ounce In mid-2023. Platinum prices saw a more modest Increase, from about $1,000 per ounce In early 2021 to around $1,200 per ounce In mid-2023, Due to the Increase In precious metal prices, the offenders then have the opportunity to increase the reward for a relatively low risk crime, which is extremely hard to detect, from a law enforcement perspective, The offenders only need a reciprocating saw with metal cutting blades. These offenders usually target vehicles that sit higher off the ground, such as trucks and SUV's, They also target vehicles with more than one converter. The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force experienced the highest theft rates from Toyota Vehicles during 2022-2023. More specifically Tundra and Tacoma Pick -Up Trucks, These vehicles have more than one Catalytic Converter. The Tundra has 4 Catalytic Converters, two on each exhaust. The Tacoma has two Catalytic Converters on the single exhaust. The Beaumont area is located approximately 80 miles east of Houston and runs all the way to the Louisiana State Line. Interstate 10 is a direct access highway from Houston and became the target of many Catalytic Converter thieves during 2022-2023. Many collaborations were conducted with Houston PD and Harris County during that time, Identifying several actors In both jurisdictions. There were also local actors Identified and arrested as well. The Legislature passed HB 4110, restricting Metal Reoyclers ability to purchase and sell Catalytic Converters. This had little effect on the theft rates, due to the still rising metal prices. This also created the need to transport the converters out of the state in order to sell them. During this time period actors were now going across the Louisiana State Line in order to avoid detection. The Task Force was able to work with at least one Metal Recyclor in Louisiana to identify some of the local Catalytic Converter thieves and made at least three arrests on proll0e offenders from the Beaumont area. The operations conducted by Houston PD, Harris County SO and other Houston Area agencies after the death of Deputy Barren Almendaroz, had a significant effect on the Catalytic Converter theft rate in the Beaumont area. This, followed by The Deputy Darren Almondarez Act (SB 224), which gave funding and a law with tooth, are huge steps in the battle against Catalytic Converter theft. The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force project area has recorded at least 663 Catalytic Converter thefts (based on the statistics above, which are agencies that had accurate records of Catalytic Converter theft from a Motor Vehicle) during the 2022-2023 Grant years. (2024 Catalytic Converter theft numbers are not available at this time, due to the fact that we are only into the second quarter of the 2024 calendar year.) This is substantial when f€guring just replacement cost to the consumer. During the height of the Covid-19 pandemic some estimates for replacement of the Catalytic Converter/Exhaust system were as high as $8,000.00 and a wait of up to three months for the parts, due to the high demand and the disruption of the supply chain. These thefts In many cases furthered the disruption, aggravating the issue. Based on a very conservative average of $2,000.00 per Catalytic Converter system, would be over $1,300,000,00. This doesn't take Into account the social and economic losses, such as lost time at work, missed doctors visits, inability to get kids to school, deliveries that could not get made etc. These costs are exponentially Incalculable. Catalytic Converter Theft from a Motor Vehicle Is costly to everyone In the State of Texas and hit the Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force coverage area hard economically and socially. Many businesses were closed down for undetermined lengths of time due to these thefts, not to mention the families that suffered additional hardships. Grant Goals and Activities There are two parts to this section: 1) Functions of Proposed Program and 2) Goals Strategies and Activities (GSA). In the following boxes, describe the functions of the proposed program and than complete a fillable form called GSA, MVCPA programs must completely describe the actions, methods and tactics that law enforcement and civilian staff will perform for each of the categories below. Describe the reliance on technology or other program elements to solve the problem statement above and goals below. Functions must be detailed and consistent with the requested budget. if a grant is awarded, funds expended towards activities not described In this section will result in the reimbursement being denied. Part 1 3.1 Functions of the proposed program related to Catalytic Converter Theft from a motor vehicle. The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force will utilize multiple Goals, Strategies and Activities to reduce the Incidence of Catalytic Converter Theft from a Motor Vehicle, employing a comprehensive program Including "Force Multipliers" such as LPR's / Cameras, Drones and Night Vision devices to address and reduce the problem. Strategy: Reduce the Incidence of Catalytic Converter Theft: Goals: Identify and Target Offenders and Prolific Offenders - Collect Intelligence - Collaborate with Law Enforcement Agencies and other Organizations - Community Crime Prevention Campaign. Activities: Identify and target Offenders and Prolific Offenders: Offenders In Catalytic Converter theft from a motor vehicle will be Identified by Information and intelligence gathered from offense reports, intelligence gained from arrests, Informants, other law enforcement agencies, LPR's (FLOCK Cameras) surveillance observations (Including the use of Drones and Night Vision Binoculars), bait operations, repair shop Inspections, salvage yard Inspections, metal rocycler Inspections, as well as Used Auto Parts resale location Inspections. The Beaumont Police Department Crime Analyst and the Beaumont Police Department Real Time Crime Center will also be used to determine patterns or trends In these offenses, The offenders will be the target of investigations based on the method of operation involved in the crime, types of vehicles being targeted, geographical location of the crimes and any Information or evidence pointing to or linking them to the crime(s). Covert operations will be used to target catalytic converter theft from a motor vehicle offenders, such as, bait operations, surveillance (Drones and Night Vision Binoculars) and LPR system data mining (FLOCK cameras), as well as witnesses or video from crime scenes, to Identify offenders and determine If there Is an organized criminal enterprise Involved. Catalytic Converter Theft from a Motor Vehicle requires an involved plan using LPR's (FLOCK Cameras) as a large intelligence gathering data base. These cameras, which will placed throughout the city of Beaumont In areas near and around Salvage Yards, Metal Rocyclers and Used Auto Parts Dealers, as well as main thoroughfares and highways, working In conjunction with the Axon Camera system that is already in place at the Beaumont Police Department In all patrol vohlcles, which are also LPR's, will be the focal point of the intelligence htips://mvepa.lamu.edu/CatalyilpConvartor/Application.asp71�1&FlscalYour=2025&GrantealD=2&App1Q-322 5/9 6120124, 12:27 PM Senate Bill 224 Grant Application gathering mechanism, There are numerous Individuals working alone and organized criminal rings, committing these thefts, There are often no real patterns to follow, such as general time frames, as they occur at all limes of the day; geographical areas are unlimited and random; when the crime is committed, the actors are generally not visible, as they are under a vehicle. The property taken Is not generally traceable and may be sold In other states. Therefore, Intelligence collection and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, in and out of the coverage area will be essential. Developing relationships with privately owned businesses, In and out of the coverage area, that deal In catalytic converter sales or purchases, will be priority In order to obtain Information or Intelligence on potential or confirmed actors in these thefts, That type of networking Is already In place and work Is being done to expand those contacts further. Collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and other organizations,. Collaboration with law enforcement agencies In and out of the project area and other MVCPA State Task Forces to determine crime trends, patterns and suspected offenders, through Intelligence sharing. This Includes Information or Intelligence Involving Juvenile offenders. Assisting other agencies with Catalytic Converter Theft from a Motor Vehicle. This collaboration will be necessary In determining if the crimes are being committed by an organized ring, if It Is one Individual or a crime of opportunity. The collaboration would Include the District Attorney's Offices In the jurisdictions affected, to help them understand the scope and Importance of the crime(s) and provide any additional Information that might be needed to properly prosecute the offender(s) utilizing The Deputy Darren Atmendarez Act to achieve the maximum Incarceration result. Community Crime Prevention and Awareness is a component of the overall program. Information and Instruction for the public Is Important to aid In the prevention of even one auto related crime. The Task Force will continue the efforts to educate the public In as many forums as are available; Neighborhood Association Meetings, Civic Organizations, Citizens Police Academy, Media Interviews, Police 1 Community Events, mass Catalytic Converter engraving events marking converters with a standardized engraving making the converter traceable to a specific vehicle or giving the ability to detect that the converser has been altered giving the presumption of theft and Public Service Announcements through the Beaumont Police Department, along with Social Media. 3.4 Functions of the proposed program related to preventing Catalytic Converter Theft The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force proposes to utilize training, education and public awareness programs, in an effort to reduce catalytic converter theft from a motor vehicle. These efforts will be focused on training of law enforcement officers in the project area at an annual Motor Vehicle Crimes TCO€.E approved training class, roll call training conducted by task force personnel at the Beaumont Police Department and dissemination of the information to agencies within the project area. This information will Include the latest Catalytic Converter theft from a motor vehicle Intelligence, as It Is acquired and any information on actor(s) I vohicle(s) involved. This Information may be relayed or distributed to Individual agencies In or out of the project area, as determined by relevance or necessity, for timely action relating to frequency or urgency of the crime pattern or trend. The Task Force will also attend Neighborhood Association Meetings, as doomed necessary to educate the public on methods to minimize becoming a victim of Catalytic Converter Theft. These practices would Include, securing vehicles at night In a garage or well III: area, purchasing aftermarket catalytic converter protection devices, marking catalytic converters with heat resistant bright colored paint or engraving the VIN on the converter and adding vibration sensors to the vehicle with a car alarm. The task force would also set dates for engraving of Catalytic Converters to be conducted at the Task Force Office. These engraving events would be coordinated with the local agencies in the project area and with other MVCPA task forces for regional or statewide events. The task force will also use the media and social media to publicize Information on how to reduce the chances of becoming a victim of Catalytic Converter theft. 3,6 Collaboration Effort -- Describe the taskforce method to collaborate, and not duplicate existing activities, Describe the cross boundaries regional approach to grant activity Implementation, Describe how the applicant staff and jurisdiction will coordinate with other taskforces and law enforcement agencies to Implement this program. The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force maintains a close working relationship with the agencies In the coverage area. Regular communication and Interaction with these agencies allows for Information and Intelligence exchanges, reducing duplication of activities. The Task Force Is called on by these agencies when they experience an issue related to motor vehicle crimes, Including Catalytic Converter theft from a motor vehicle. The task force also networks with other task forces In the region. Statewide collaboration is facilitated, In great part, through the MVCPA monthly webinars. These exchanges Illustrate how Information on trends and patterns that are occurring in other parts of the state, may predict that they will be occurring in our area and vice versa. Task Force personnel make regular contact with task forces In the region regarding active cases. These collaborations have resulted In recoveries In all aspects of motor vehicle crimes and catalytic converter theft, as well as suspect development and apprehensions. Communication is the key to coordination and collaboration to minimize duplication and maximize deconflictlon. Project area agencies also call on the Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force for any resources that might be available through the task force and are always accommodated If possible, The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force fosters these long-standing relationships, maintaining these alliances and working toward the common good for the project area and the State of Texas. 3.7 If the proposed application requests any exceptions or deviation from any general grant rules, RFA conditions or grant administrative policy, please Indicate In the section below. Indicate the section of the specific issue and citation that you are asking the MVCPA to consider and the rational for the request. The Southeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force Is not requesting any exceptions or deviations from rules, conditions or policies. Part II Goals, Strategies, and Activities Select Goals, Strategies, and Activity Targets for the proposed program described In the application. Click on the link above to open a new table called Goals, Strategies, and Activity. Applicants will review the statutory and optional activities. The first section is the statutory measures, Grantees may not provide targets for this section but need to review the descriptions to ensure that they understand the statutory minimum requirements associated with this grant. Applicants will then review the other items and estimate targets for only the activities that the applicant has described and plans to complete under this application. hltps:llmvcpa.tamu.ed ulCatalyticConverlerlAppllcatlon,asp?t =1&FlscalYear=2025&GranteelD=2&App1D=322 6l9 6120/24, 12:27 PM Senate Bill 224 Grant Appllcatlon ID Activity Measure Target 1 Goal'1; Reduce the. Incidence of Catalytic. Converter Theft through Enforcement Strategies y,f 1.1 Strategy 1: Conduct Activities that Result in the Arrest, Clearance, and Recoveries of Catalytic Converter Theft 1.1.1 Identify groups of catalytic conveter theft offenders through intelligence gathering, crime analysis and the use of informants 1.1,2 Identify and document/record prolific Catalytic Convertor Theft offenders (Prolific Is defined as "linked to Catalytic Converter Theft offenses three or more times") 1.1.5 Conduct Inspections of local businesses related to vehicle enterprise (transportation code or occupation code authorized companies such as salvage yard, repair shop, parts recycling center, used car dealership, salvage rebullder, title service company, other). 1.1.6 Conduct bait vehicle operations that target Catalytic Convertor Theft offenders 1.1,8 Deploy license plate readers (LPR) 1.1.9 Respond to taskforce license plate reader (LPR) alert notifications 1.1.12 Conduct covert operations targeting Catalytic Converter Theft offenders 1.1.13 Conduct warrant "round -up" operations targeting catalytic convertor crime offenders, including people wanted for Catalytic Converter Theft 1.1.15 Increase the recovery rate of stolen motor vehicle Catalytic Converter Theft Number of catalytic conveter theft groups Identified, Include gangs, cartels or other criminal enterprise with two or Moro members Number Identified/documented offenders Number of businesses inspected Number of bait vehicle deployments. Include Catalytic Converter Theft bait operations here. Number of times LPR deployed, Deploy: If stationary unit then total number of days or partial days unit was operable and on. Mobile unit number of days the unit was on and operable. Number of times Investigators responded to taskforce LPR alert notifications regardless of whether vehicle was located Number of covert operations Number of warrant round -up operations performed Catalytic Convertor Theft Report the number of Catalytic Converters recovered by taskforce 1.1.16 Increase the clearance rate of Report the number of Catalytic Converter Theft cases cleared Catalytic Converter Theft 1.1.17 Increase the number of persons Report the number of persons arrested for Catalytic Converter Theft by taskforce arrested for Catalytic Converter Theft 1.2 Strategy 2: Conduct Collaborative Efforts that Result In Reduction of Incidents of Catalytic Converter Theft 2.1 Provide Agency Assists for Catalytic Converter Theft 1.2.2 Collaborate with other units or divisions (W. homicide, vice, narcotics, etc.) within the taskforce department(s) where there were crimes Involving catalytic converter theft. Include all participating jurisdiction departments here. 1.2.3 Collaborate with all other outside LE agencies and othor organizations that assist In the reduction of Catalytic Converter Theft, Include all coverage jurisdictions here Number of agency assists related to catalytic conveter theft. Assist means responding or answering questions via phone, a -mall, or In person. Providing recommendation, guidance, strategy, support or information that other LEOs will use to resolve their cases. The assist generally does not have the direct responsibility for an Investigation nor uses LEO authority. The assist helps another LEO or agency Investigate cases. Analysts and civilian employees will record their assists to outside LEOs and agencies met here along with officers. Number of times collaborated within departments or SOs participating In taskforce related to Catalytic Converter Theft. Collaboration means physically using law enforcement resources, tactics and authority to perform activity on cases that draw upon or aid In the Investigation intended to further the resolution of any case, Identify parties to crime, Identify vehicles, Interview witnesses/suspects and apprehend suspects. Collaboration will Include any help, recommendation, contribution or support requested from or provided to another unit or offered by the taskforce that aids In the furtherance of Catalytic Converter Theft Investigations. Number of times collaborated with coverage area agencies or other law enforcement agencies and organizations that assist In the reduction of Catalytic Converter Theft. Collaboration means physically using law enforcement resources, tactics and authority to perform activity on cases that draw upon or aid In the Investigation Intended to further the resolution of any case, Identify parties to crime, Identify vehicles, Interview witnesses/suspects and apprehend suspects. Collaboration will Include any help, recommendation, contribution or support 20 10 https://mvcpa,tamu.edulCalalyllcOonvartorlAppilcation.asp71-1 &FiscalYear=202E&Gran tee ID=2&App ID=322 719 6120124, 12:27 PM Senate Bill 224 Grant Application ID Activity Measure Target requested from or provided to another unit or offered by the taskforce that aids In the furtherance of Catalytic Converter Theft Investigations 1.2.5 Conduct Intelligence Information- Number of Intelligence meetings attended (include attending as presenter, sharing (Personal attendance) participant or attendee) 1.2,6 Conduct Intelligence Information- Crime analysis bulletins disseminated (include information distributed to law sharing (Written Information) enforcement agencies via text, e-mail, or antra -net communications) 1.2.7 Collaborate with other MVCPA Number of times collaborated with other MVCPA taskforces that assist in the taskforces reduction In Catalytic Converter Theft 3! ; Goal 3i EducatelTraln. Cltlxens.hnd qualIfled. .Personnel In Detection and. Prevention of Catalytic: Converter Theft a 3.1 Strategy 1: Conduct Public Awareness Related Activities Used to Educate Citizens 3.1.1 Conduct educational outreach events Number of outreaches 2 (Include trade show, exhibits, booths at community events, vehicle displays, brochures, etc.) 3.1.2 Conduct educational presentations to Number of presentations. Presentation means in person, on-line, original written the public document, article, or webpage. 3.1 A Conduct vehicle Identification Number of etching events. Including catalytic converters. 2 Initiative/event 3.1.4.1 Conduct vehicle Identification Number of Participants/Attendees Catalytic Converters Marked) Inlllative/event 3.1.5 Purchase advertisements in local Number of advertisements purchased or provided complimentary for taskforce. outlets Include all typos of media purchased or provided free (social, tv, utility Inserts, billboards, transportation, etc,) 3.1.7 Utilize social media outlets (Facebook, Number of postings in social media outlets 10 Twitter, Instagram, etc.) 3.1.8 Deploy outdoor public notification Number of deployments per month (if sign remains several months, count as 1 slgnage deployment per month) 3.1.10 Conduct media outreach, Including, Number of outreaches 2 public service announcements, press releases, and Interviews 3,2 Strategy 2: Conduct Law Enforcement Training Activities to Educate Officers on Recognition and Apprehension of Stolen Vehicles and Property 3.2.1 Conduct law enforcement training Number of classes provided for TCOLE credit 1 (TCOLE) 3,2.3 Conduct vehicle crimes presentations Number of classes or presentations. Presentations may Include electronic roll call 5 to law enforcement agencies (non documents, shift BOLOs and other written or presented materials based on local TCOLE=) practices. Grant Evaluation 4.1 Describe the local method and/or practice used to collect the data for reporting Goals, Strategies, and Activities and to evaluate the grant program effectiveness. Describe management and staff participation. Include descriptions of systems (forms and software) that will be used to ensure reliable and accurate data Is collected and reported. Describe any other evaluation methods used In the applicant agency to determine effectiveness or cost efficiency of the program. The local evaluation process establishes accountability and measurement of progress through collection of data and information throughout the chain of command. Investigators are required to keep activity logs and submit monthly reports to the Program Manager, The Task Force Supervisor/Program Manager reviews cases and monitors the activities of Investigators. The Program Director oversees the entire operation, including the field supervisor, and maintains records of activity and spending. The Program Director works closely with the Beaumont CFO's grant coordinator and reports as necessary to the department heads of the participating agencies to discuss progress and/or problems. NIBRS data for all agencies within the project area will be closely monitored to determine the overall Impact of Task Force efforts. Personal activity logs and specific reports will be maintained to log progress on stated objectives. Those Include information detailing such things as the number of ball operations, Inspections and public awareness inlllatives performed. They will also record other items like arrests made, cases filed, Catalytic Converters recovered, and the dispositions of the property upon completion of the cases. Progress of the program will be evaluated monthly. Each Investigator will complete a monthly report based on MVCPA reporting categories and the specific strategies, activities and goals of this grant. Each report will be accompanied by documentation supporting the Information given. The Project Manager will then compile that Information Into the quarterly Progress Reports that are forwarded to MVCPA. All other MVCPA required reporting will be completed by the Program Manager, such as the year and progress report. 4.2 Provide any other suggested measures that would better reflect the law enforcement or prevention work that the proposed program will perform. If the suggested measure fits Into one of the stated goals above please Indicate. None noted. TxGMS Standard Assurances by Local Governments 0 We acknowledge reviewing the TxGMS Standard Assurances by local Governments as promulgated by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and agree to abide by the terms stated therein. https.,Ilmvcpa,tamu.edulCatalyticConvertarlApplieatlon.asp71=1 &F tscalYear=2025&Grenteel D=2&ApptD=322 8/0 6120/24, 12:27 PM Senate Biil 224 GrantAppllcallon File Up oad Home .-,� ar, � r 77NM o...l.;y"_,.�.; ...,.:...mow vm �'-'�-�-.,,ni',�--"="-".�,.��n-•...� �.RS!��.a�-�rr.��l?�:�!<...�� -.,, ���.,T._, ���r-�::�,�,..�^.,... �--,z.,,�� ^�-_, o.�a ._r.'"�-!: htlps:/lmvcpa.lamio.edu/CatalyticConverter/Application, asp? 1=9&FiscalYear=2026&GranleelD=2&App1D=322 919