A Resolution by the Florida Police Chiefs Association in support of the Florida Department of Corrections being granted limited law enforcement powers.

WHEREAS, the Florida Department of Corrections has submitted proposed legislation to grant the Department authority to designate selected staff members as sworn officers; and

WHEREAS, based upon limited statutory authority, Department of Corrections inspectors are precluded from conducting complete investigations and must request assistance by other law enforcement organizations to close out the case by virtue of making the arrest; and

WHEREAS, the lack of designation and authority as sworn law enforcement officers, Department of Corrections inspectors are not perceived by other law enforcement officers as peers and fellow professionals; and

WHEREAS, the proposed change would provide arrest powers to designated inspectors with respect to matters occurring on property owned or leased by the Department and only over matters which the Department has jurisdiction; and

WHEREAS, the granting of limited law enforcement powers to the Department of Corrections would increase the professionalism of the staff through additional training required for law enforcement certification, enhance the perception of the Inspector Generals Office by becoming and equal member of the law enforcement community, and allow the investigative process to become more efficient and effective.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT, the Florida Police Chiefs Association strongly advocates their support for the Department of Corrections to be granted law enforcement powers to persons designated by the Secretary to enforce violations of criminal laws of the state in matters where the Department has jurisdiction.

PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 14th DAY OF JANUARY 2001, by the Board of Directors of the Florida Police Chiefs Association, in St. Augustine, Florida.