PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Commissioners approved a new tool for detectives to use in their investigations.
Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hassel asked the Commissioners to allow his department to enter into a three year contract with “Leads Online” as a tool for detectives. The service would allow deputies investigating a case to search for stolen property being sold online.
Hassel told the board that his detectives had informed him that the service would be a valuable tool for them in gathering evidence in many cases.
Present at the meeting to talk on another issue, Marshall Superior Court 1 Judge Tami Napier came forward to address the Commissioners, stating that the service had proved invaluable to her and investigators on several cases in her time as Chief Prosecutor, including a murder investigation.
The Commissioners unanimously approved the contract which is at a rate of $3103 for the first year, $3199 for the second, and $3219 for the third.
In other action, the Sheriff also obtained the go-ahead from the Commissioners to increase the department’s charges to provide records and evidence on specific cases.
Most requests come from lawyers and can include every 911 call, all radio traffic and all video recorded that relates to the case.
Hassel said that the processing of the electronic data can be time-consuming and requires an officer to review each item in order to redact areas that would be covered under privacy laws.
The Sheriff will increase the amount to $30 per hour up to $150 per request.
