TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute an agreement, and all necessary documents including any amendments, with the County of Los Angeles (County), to receive and expend grant funding up to $60,000 from the County Real Estate Fraud Prosecution Program, for the period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022; and
Increase appropriations in the General Grants Fund Group in the Police Department by $60,000, offset by grant revenue. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
On June 24, 2021, the Long Beach Police Department was awarded grant funding for the thirteenth consecutive year from the County through the Real Estate Fraud Prosecution Program (Real Estate 21) grant in the amount of $60,000. The grant provides funding for detective overtime hours assigned to real estate fraud investigation/prosecution, supplies, and training. The grant term is July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022.
Real estate fraud can cause severe trauma to victims in the community. This grant will provide funding for the Financial Crime Unit, who investigates and prosecutes suspects who target victims through fraudulent loans or ownership documents. In 2020, the unit initiated five real estate fraud reports. Through June 2021, there are 13 open real estate fraud cases. The Real Estate 21 grant will provide resources to the Financial Crime Unit to further assist and protect members of the community.
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Arturo D. Sanchez on July 12, 2021 and by Budget Analysis Officer Greg Sorensen on July 9, 2021.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on August 3, 2021, to expedite use of grant funds.
FISCAL IMPACT
The City will receive grant funding up to $60,000 for the period of July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022 for detective overtime hours assigned to real estate fraud investigation/prosecution, supplies, and training. An appropriation increase is requested in the amount of $60,000 in the General Grants Fund Group in the Police Depa...
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