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Item T6 AUDIT REPORT OF MONROE COUNTY SALVATION ARMY MISDEMEANANT CONTRACT August 15, 2003 Prepared by: Internal Audit Department Clerk of the Circuit Court Danny L. KoIhage, Clerk Monroe County, Florida 76 BRANCH OFFICE MARATHON SUB COURTHOUSE 3117 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY MARATHON, FLORIDA 33050 TEL (305) 289-6027 FAC< (305) 289-1745 CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT MONROE COUNTY MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE 500 WHITEHEAD STREET, SUITE 101 KEY WEST, FLORIDA 33040 TEL (305) 292-3550 FAC< (305) 295-3663 BRANCH OFFICE PLANTATION KEY GOVERNMENT CENfER 88820 OVERSEAS HIGHWAY PLANTATION KEY, FLORIDA 33070 TEL (305) 852-7145 FAC<(305) 852-7146 August 15,2003 The Honorable Danny L. Kolhage Clerk of the Circuit Court Re: Audit of the Monroe County Salvation Army Misdemeanant Contract Dear Mr. Kolhage: The Clerk's Internal Audit Department has completed the audit of the Monroe County Salvation Army Misdemeanant Contract. The audit concentrated on the Cash Management Process used in the Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services contract. Probation services include the collection of court imposed fines and fees that the Salvation Army subsequently remits to the Clerk of the Court. A review of the Salvation Army method of accounting and reporting fine infonnation to the Court was perfonned. We would like to thank the Commanding Officer of the Salvation Army and his staff for their cooperation while conducting the audit. By its nature, this report focuses on exceptions, weaknesses, and problems. This should not be understood to mean there are not also various strengths and accomplishments. Our audit revealed that although the County has contracts with private business organizations to administer programs, strong financial and internal controls are needed in the contracts. The audit was completed with the assistance of Patricia Sutton, Internal Auditor. The accompanying audit report is provided for your information. Additional copies of the report will be provided upon your request. Sincerely, ~ c1 71J~ Sandra L. Mathena, CIA, CFE, CPA Director of Internal Audit Cc: Board of County Commissioners (5) Judge Payne, Chief Judge of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit Captain David Worthy, Commanding Officer Salvation Army James Roberts, County Administrator Mark Kohl, State Attorney Jacque Donahue, Supervisor Clerk's Office AUDIT REPORT OF MONROE COUNTY SALVATION ARMY MISDEMEANANT CONTRACT TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 1. SCOPE AND OBJECTIVES 1 II. METHODOLOGY 1-2 III. BACKGROUND 3-4 IV. CONCLUSIONS 5 V. AUDIT FINDINGS: A. Unauthorized Loan 6 B. Distribution Of Amounts Collected Not Made On A Timely Basis 7 C. Outstanding Check List Contains Numerous Checks That Could Be Voided And Reissued 8 D. Annual Financial Reports Not Submitted 9 E. Quarterly Reports Not Submitted 10 F. Financing Purchases From Escrow Funds 11 G. Excluding The Escrow Account From The External Financial Statements 12 H. Collection Of Public Defender Application Fees 13 1. Theft Of Probation Funds By Counselors At The Marathon And Key West Probation Offices 14-15 1. Utilization Of System Generated Reports 16 VI. EXHIBITS A. Contract For Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services Provided By The Salvation Army B. Letter From The Salvation Army C. Assistant County Attorney Opinion D. Letter From Court Administrator E. Monthly Statistical Report VII. AUDITEE RESPONSES AUDIT REPORT OF MONROE COUNTY SAL V ATION ARMY MISDEMEANANT CONTRACT I. OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE At the request of the Monroe County Clerk of the Circuit Court, the Internal Audit Department has completed an audit of the Cash Management Process used in the Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services contract provided by the Salvation Army. A review of Salvation Army bank reconciliations and methods of accounting and reporting fine information to the Court was performed. II. METHODOLOGY A. During the audit, the following personnel were interviewed to obtain information about the Policies and Procedures used in Supervision Services: 1. Captain David Worthy, Commanding Officer - Salvation Army 2. Tom Wagner, Accountant - Salvation Army 3. Terry Buchaus, Misdemeanant Operations Analyst - Salvation Army 4. Lillian Harrison, Coordinator of Information Services - Salvation Army 5. Jim Gannon, Director of Corrections - Salvation Army 6. Kim Lieberknect, Sf. Probation Officer - Salvation Army 7. Director of Court Services 8. Supervisor Traffic/Misdemeanors 9. Assistant County Attorney B. The Internal Audit Department examined the following documents: 1. Executed copy of the contract between Monroe County and Salvation Army 2. Official County Records and supporting documentation 3. Copies of Salvation Army Bank Statements 4. Copies of Salvation Army Receipts, Canceled Checks 5. Observation at Salvation Army ofthe Cash Process 6. Spreadsheets provided by the Salvation Army of all Cash Receipts and Cash Disbursements from 1992 to April 2003 7. Salvation Army's Financial Statements 8. Florida Statute 717 - Disposition of Unclaimed Property 9. Florida Statute 948.15 - Misdemeanor Probation Services 10. Salvation Army Escrow Disbursement Report 11. Salvation Army Internal Audit Reports 1 C. The Internal Audit Department reviewed contracts to ensure that all terms and conditions were being complied with as documented within the agreement. D. The Internal Audit Department reviewed a number of probation files maintained by the Salvation Army and the Clerk's Office to determine whether court orders were complied with and reported to the Clerk's Office. 2 III. BACKGROUND INFORMATION Monroe County sought the services of a private entity to provide misdemeanor probation services pursuant to Section 948.15 of the Florida Statutes. The current Contract For Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services Provided By The Salvation Army was entered into between Momoe County and the Salvation Army (Army) on behalf of the Chief Judge of the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit on December 10,2000. This contract falls under the supervision of the Courts. The contract appoints the Salvation Army per Section 948.15 F.S. as the private entity to provide certain probation services for the efficient administration of justice in Momoe County. Probation services include the collection of court imposed fines and fees that the Salvation Army subsequently remits to the Clerk of the Court. The Army is entitled to collect from each probationer costs of supervision. Under this agreement, the Army derives its funding by charging probationers $45.00 per month for its services. During May 2003, clients under active supervision totaled 582 in Key West and 299 in Marathon. Terms of the December 2000 executed contract are for a 36-month period or until terminated by either party. See Exhibit A - Contract For Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services Provided By The Salvation Army. In addition to other services applicable to the contract, the Army agrees to provide the following services to the Court: Assign in-house court representatives in each county courthouse for initial intake of persons placed on misdemeanor probation. Provide interpreters to assist non-English speaking probationers in understanding and meeting the terms of probation. Maintain flexible hours including weekend and/or evening hours by appointment when necessary for continued employment of the probationer and to encourage employment of the probationer. Prepare a written plan of need, which IS to be addressed during the period of supervision on each probationer. Maintain separate case files containing information on all cases referred to the misdemeanor probation program. The information in the file shall include the name of the probationer, case number, charge(s), COURT order(s) relating to supervision, intake and supervision reports, payment records of restitution and court ordered fees, data and time records of in-office and field contacts with the probationer, records of community service work hours, report of treatment programs or other special conditions of the COURT, computer house arrest records, any known prior criminal record, reports of violation, report oftermination, and probation disposition. 3 Maintain records for a period of three (3) years past the termination of probation to encourage employment ofthe probationer. Provide a minimum of one monthly probationer contact, either through mail or in person, for counseling and/or supervision, unless waived by the COURT. Provide all probation services as directed by the COURT and shall follow up and enforce special conditions of probation including but not limited to restitution, fines and court costs, evaluation and treatment, community service, cost of supervision and procurement of licenses. Shall place priority on supervISIOn of the payment of restitution to probationers' victim(s). Waivers by the COURT of any special condition of probation shall be noted in the case file. All sums payable to the Clerk of the Court and to victims shall be deposited into an escrow account usable only for such payments. Payments of fines and court costs shall be made in accordance with a schedule to be developed by the Clerk of the Court. Establish a program, which allows individuals, assigned to the program to pay court ordered obligations in monthly installments. Obtain verification in writing from the appropriate agency for all non-monetary conditions of probation imposed by the COURT. The Army agrees to maintain auditable financial records of all fines, restitution, and supervision fees received and disbursed by the Army. A financial report shall be provided to the Chief Judge within (90) days following the close of the Army's fiscal year. In 2002, the Salvation Army implemented a new module to their current computer software that allows maintenance of payment information and automates payment information for review and processing. Payments collected for restitution and court ordered fees adjudicated after September 11, 2002 are to be processed and distributed on a biweekly basis. 4 IV. AUDIT CONCLUSIONS: A. Unauthorized loan of $25,000 to the Army's corporate headquarters using escrow funds violating the terms of the contract. B. Distribution of fines, court costs, and restitution collected are not made on a timely basis. C. The outstanding check list contains numerous stale dated checks that could be reissued. D. Annual financial reports have not been provided to the Chief Judge within 90 days following the close ofthe Army's fiscal year. E. Quarterly reports summarizing the number of offenders supervised by the Army are not submitted as required by Florida Statute 948.15 Misdemeanor Probation Services. F. Escrow funds are being used to finance check stock purchases, bank fees and deposit corrections. Reimbursement does not appear to be on a timely basis. G. The escrow account balance and the related liability are excluded from the Army's financial statements. H. The public defender application fees of $40 are frequently not paid when filed, or within 7 days thereafter. The Army does not collect the $40 unless the Judge indicates it is a condition of probation. I. Internal theft and falsification of documents was discovered by Army personnel in both the Marathon and Key West probation offices. J. The newly implemented module to maintain payments for fines and restitution generates numerous reports that are not being utilized for system management. 5 V. AUDIT FINDINGS: A. Unauthorized Loan Findin~: The Army acts in a fiduciary capacity for the Clerk of Courts, State Attorney, Key West Police Department, Monroe County Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, other agencies and the victims. The Army's accountant wire transferred a $25,000 unauthorized loan to its corporate headquarters in October 1998 violating the contract provisions. The Army accountant indicated there was a lack of funds in their other accounts due to Hurricane George and the Fines and Restitution account was reimbursed the following month. This unauthorized loan violates the contract which states "All sums payable to the Clerk of the Courts and to victims shall be deposited into an escrow account usable only for such payments." Recommendation: 1. Unauthorized loans should not be made from the escrow account according to the terms ofthe agreement with the Army. Salvation Army Response: The Salvation Army certainly understands that utilizing escrow monies for any purpose other than that relating directly to the outlay and distribution of F & R monies is not permissible. In fact, doing so directly counters Salvation Army policy, and internally, we would never knowingly allow such a practice to occur. I was not in command in 1998 nor did The Salvation Army condone such an act, but I can assure you that it has not occurred since nor will it occur in the future. 6 B. Distributions Of Amounts Collected Not Made On A Timely Basis. Findin~: The Army collects fines, court costs, restitution and other costs from probationers on behalf of the Courts, deposits the funds into a non-interest bearing escrow account and then distributes the money to the appropriate owner. Due to turnover within the Army, funds due to the Clerk of Courts totaling more than $90,000 had not properly been distributed. See Exhibit B - Letter from the Salvation Army. The Clerk requested an internal audit of the Army misdemeanor collection and distribution process. The Army's Director had Army personnel from the district headquarters process $79,499.36 of the $90,000 backlog. These funds were distributed to the Clerk's office in August 2002. During the internal audit, it was discovered that there were additional amounts totaling $29,196.50 from the period 1992 through 2000 that were not distributed. The Army and the Clerk's Misdemeanor Department are currently researching this amount and approximately $20,400 will be processed. Recommendation: 1. The Salvation Army should continue researching the distribution of the remaining funds. 2. The remaining payments of approximately $8,800 received by the Army cannot be identified. Appropriate authorities should decide what should be done with this vanance. Salvation Army Response: The Salvation Army is in the process of determining and identifying the remaining outstanding funds so that the monies can be disbursed properly in a timely manner and we will comply with the law in the distribution of those unidentified monies. In other counties this money has been sent to the State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance. 7 C. Outstanding Check List Contains Numerous Checks That Could Be Voided And Reissued Findin~: After reviewing the Army's most current bank statement April 2003, the auditors discovered outstanding checks being carried forward each month since 1994. The total is $51,480.15 as of the April 30, 2003 bank statement. The amount outstanding between 1994 and 2002 totals $22,662.98. The Army's accountant explained that many of the checks were issued to victims for restitution payments and had been returned without forwarding addresses. These funds should be sent to State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance as abandoned funds in accordance with the Assistant County Attorney's Opinion. See Exhibit C - Assistant County Attorney Opinion. Of the outstanding checks carried on the bank reconciliation since 1994, 37% are easily identified as owing to local organizations. For example, Monroe County Clerk of Courts has a balance of $3,731.50, Winn Dixie $1,072.17, State Attorney $240.00, Public Defender $30.00, Key West Citizen $50.00 and the Board of County Commissioners $50.00. Checks totaling $2,767.00 of the Clerk's $3,731.50 had been returned to the Salvation Army and should have been corrected and reissued to the Clerk. The auditors have requested that these checks be reissued during the audit. Recommendation: 1. Outstanding checks and returned checks should be resolved on a timely basis. 2. Appropriate authorities should decide when the unclaimed restitution payments should be processed as abandoned property. Salvation Armv Response: Salvation Army bookkeeper, Tom Wagner, will be formally instructed on procedures related to clearing outstanding amounts. Checks not cleared in six months will be voided and reissued in a second attempt to locate the payee. If the victim cannot be found, checks will be reissued to the State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance as per instructions of the Assistant County Attorney. I, as officer in charge, will continue to monitor our process for check distribution to ensure that they are processed, cut and mailed in the most efficient manner possible. 8 D. Annual Financial Reports Not Submitted Findin2: The Contract for Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services Provided by the Salvation Army - Section III. Records. states "The ARMY shall maintain auditable financial records of all Fines, Restitutions, and Supervision Fees received and disbursed by the ARMY. A financial report shall be provided to the Chief Judge within (90) days following the close of the Army's fiscal year." According to the Court Administrator, financial reports have not been provided by the Salvation Army to the Chief Judge. See Exhibit D - Letter from Court Administrator. The financial report should be completed annually and provided to the Chief Judge to ensure accountability and the effectiveness of the Army in providing services to the Court. Recommendation: 1. The Salvation Army should adhere to the terms of the Agreement and provide the financial report on an annual basis. Salvation Armv Response: We have been lax in the requirement that annual financial reports be submitted to the Chief Judge as per the contract requirement. This report and all other required accountability documentation will be submitted to the proper parties within the outlined contractual deadlines. 9 E. Quarterly Reports Not Submitted Findin~: Quarterly reports summarizing the number of offenders supervised by the Army are not submitted as required by Florida Statute 948.15 Misdemeanor Probation Services. During the audit, the Army started a monthly statistical report that will be forwarded to the Court. See Exhibit E - Statistical Report. Florida Statute 948.15 discusses the terms of the contract that must be stated in the Agreement. Part (3) states "In addition, the entity shall supply the chief judge's office with a quarterly report summarizing the number of offenders supervised by the private entity, payment of the required contribution under supervision or rehabilitation, and the number of offenders for whom supervision or rehabilitation will be terminated." The Agreement states only that "The ARMY shall also record and maintain statistical data concerning the number and type of cases being handled, terminated, and completed as well as such additional information as may be required by the Chief Judge to assist in evaluating the effectiveness of the ARMY'S activities. " Recommendation 1. The Agreement should require quarterly activity reports in accordance with Florida Statute 948.15 Misdemeanor Probation Services. Salvation Armv Response: The issue of not submitting reports to the judges has been rectified and reports dating back through January 2003 have been sent to all judges. 10 F. Financing Purchases From Escrow Funds Findine: The Army's non-interest bearing escrow account should be used for the purpose of depositing funds to be immediately reissued to the appropriate recipient(s). It appears escrow funds are being used to finance check stock purchases, bank fees and deposit corrections. The Army's accountant stated the funds are returned to cover the cost of any expenses to that account the month following the purchase or charge to the account. A review of the bank statements revealed that reimbursement does not appear to be on a timely basis. Recommendation: 1. Policies and Procedures should be in place to mandate the Army to reimburse the account for any check stock purchases, bank fees and deposit corrections. Salvation Army Response: Again, Salvation Army policy mandates that monies from escrow accounts not be used for any purpose other than those explicitly allowed for by the account. I, as officer in charge, will monitor the escrow account to ensure that this situation never occurs again. I can assure you at this time that all monies have been replaced in the escrow account. 11 G. Excluding The Escrow Account From The External Financial Statements Findin2: A fundamental part of non-profit accounting is the establishment of fiduciary funds to account for funds held for others. This discloses and provides control over the liability for funds collected for third parties. The Army has full control over the escrow account and therefore should show this account as an asset on their financial statements with an offsetting liability. The net effect is zero and the notes to their financial statements would provide any necessary details regarding the account. Currently, the Army doesn't provide any notes to the financial statement mentioning their fiduciary duty to the Courts. Recommendation: 1. The Salvation Army should show the balance of funds held for others in its external accounting reports. Fiduciary funds should be reported which account for the Salvation Army's liability for funds collected for others. Salvation Army Response: The Salvation Army's Territorial (regional) Finance Department determines the setup of our accounting functions. I have no authority to change the manner in which these accounts are setup or functionalized, however, I will make certain that our finance department understands that this audit has expressed concerned regarding this issue. Please understand, though, that these funds are auditable at any time per our contract. 12 H. Collection Of Public Defender Application Fees Findine: Public defender application fees of $40 are frequently not paid when filed, or within 7 days thereafter. The Salvation Army does not collect the $40 unless the judge indicates it is a condition of probation. Florida Statute 27.52 (ld) states "If the application fee is not paid prior to the disposition of the case, the clerk shall advise the sentencing judge of this fact and the court shall: 1. Assess the application fee as part of the sentence or as a condition of probation; or 2. Assess the application fee pursuant to s. 938.29. " The statute further states "Notwithstanding any provision of law or local order to the contrary, the clerk of the court shall assign the first $40 of any court assessed fees or costs that are paid by an indigent defendant as payment for the application fee." The Clerk automatically assesses the $40 fee on the case when an application for public defender is filed. Recommendation: 1. The Salvation Army should consider consulting with the Court to make it an automatic condition of probation when the public defender application fee is not paid prior to filing or within seven days thereafter. Salvation Army Response: As we understand it, the collection of the public defender application fee is the Clerk of the Court's responsibility per Florida Statute 27.52, as is the notification of nonpayment to the court. It is The Salvation Army's responsibility to have clients comply only with conditions first ordered by the courts. The Salvation Army does not have the authority to order clients to comply with conditions which have not been ordered by the court. In order to ensure the accuracy of the sentence ordered by the court, the Clerk of Court should be responsible for typing the court orders and then relaying a copy to The Salvation Army. Out of necessity, we have taken on responsibility traditionally belonging to the Clerk in obtaining information from the court minutes and completing court orders for the judges to sign. This has proven to be both costly and time consummg. 13 I. Theft Of Probation Funds By Counselors At The Marathon And Key West Army Probation Offices Findin~: Internal theft of probation funds was discovered by Salvation Army personnel. Salvation Army district headquarters personnel subsequently performed an internal investigation. The investigation in the Key West probation office revealed 23 cases of fraud in the amount of $10,017.50, due to the Monroe County Clerk of the Court. Detail was provided to the Key West Police Department. The Salvation Army's probation office in Marathon also incurred internal theft. The terminated employee has been ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,337.00, due to the Monroe County Clerk of the Court. The Salvation Army has experienced a 100% turnover in staff in the Key West office and has limited personnel in the Marathon facility resulting in the falsification of records and theft of funds paid by probationers. The Salvation Army audit personnel in their audit report dated May 31, 2002 stated "Breaks and irregularities in the receipt number sequences contained in the deposits makes internal control over funds received very difficult." The Army further recommended "To provide sound internal controls, all numerically controlled documents should be issued in sequential order. Receipts should also be deposited in numerical order to insure that all receipts are deposited promptly." The Army has a new director managing both probation offices and is more closely adhering to policies and procedures to prevent the occurrence of future theft. Recommendation: 1. The Salvation Army should reimburse the Clerk's Office the remaining amount of the $10,017.50 in a lump sum, at this time. 2. Salvation Army policies and procedures for cash management should be followed. Salvation Army Response: The Salvation Army will reimburse the Clerk of the Court for the $10,017.50 allegedly stolen by former probation counselor, William Rodriguez (see attached check). Employee theft has been a serious and most unfortunate problem in the past, however, it is important to note the responsiveness of The Salvation Army in handling this issue. Once the Army became aware of records falsification and alleged theft, an internal investigation was conducted and local law enforcement agencies were notified, who subsequently, conducted follow-up, official investigations oftheir own. Additional, we have both implemented new and strengthened existing standing policies related to financial accountability with our counselors. As an example, when a probationer makes a payment, the payment process begins with the counselor entering the information into the computer to generate a receipt. The probationer then walks the 14 actual payment into the office of the receptionist who receives the money. The receipt for monies owed/paid (entered into the computer by the counselor) is then printed by the receptionist to ensure that the payment owed and payment made match up. In the past, misappropriation of funds by employees has primarily occurred when there was only one employee involved in the transaction. I might also note that while there has been significant turnover, the staffing level in each office is proportionate to the number of cases being supervised and does not relate to theft or the falsification of records. 15 J. Utilization Of System Generated Reports Findin~: The Army implemented a new module on September 11, 2002 to their current software that allows maintenance of payment information and automates payment information for review and processing. The new module produces various reports to manage the fines and restitution receipts and payments in a more efficient manner. The Coordinator of Information Services indicated there are numerous reports to be used for reconciliation and review by the Army's accountant and other Army personnel. The auditor's were provided a system generated report, Escrow Disbursement Report, to reconcile open receipts maintained on a Lotus spreadsheet by the Army's accountant to current system information. The review of the Escrow Disbursement Report revealed payments received dating back to the inception of the new module. The director was unaware of the report, but indicated it could be a useful tool in managing distributions on a timely basis. Review of the system generated reports would ensure proper distribution of client payments and provide Army personnel the capability to monitor and maintain receipts and payments in a current and accurate manner. Recommendation: 1. The Army's District Headquarters should provide additional training to allow Army personnel to fully utilize the tools available with the new system module. 2. Salvation Army personnel should review system reports on a regular basis. Salvation Army Response: The Salvation Army Divisional (state) Correctional Services Department staff has committed to offering any and all employee training that will further enhance our staffs ability to effectively operate and meet client's needs. Further, the commanding officer and senior administrative staff will ensure that probation personnel submit all required reports. 16 VI. EXHIBITS Exhibit A Contract For Misdemeanant Offender Supervision Services Provided By The Salvation Army CONTRACT FOR MISDEMEANANT OFFENDER SUPERVISION SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE SALVA nON ARMY A GEORGIA CORPORATION ..... THIS AGREEMENT (tbe c'CONTRACT") is entered into tbis 10" day to December, 2000, pursuant to B948.1S. Florida Statutes (1991), upon the signatur~ ofalJ p~rties, by an,d betw~ the Board if COUNTY Commissioners of Monroe County, FJonda (the COUNTY'), a polItIcal subdivision of the State ofFJorida , on behalf of the Chief 1udge . Sixteenth 1udicial circuit (the "CHIEF JUDGE") and the Salvation Army, a Georgia Corporation (the "Army"). WHEREAS, certain misdemeanor defendants are sentenced to terms of probation by the County Court, Sixteenth Iudicial Circuit, Monroe County, (the ccCOURT"); and WHEREAS, Section 948.1 S, Florida Statutes (J 99J), states that supervision, rehabiJitation,l and probation services may be provided by a court-approved private entity; and WHEREAS, Sections 77S.089 and 948.03. Florida Statutes (1989), authorize courts to order defendants to make restitution; and WHEREAS. the COURT seeks a private entity to provide certain probation services for the efficient administration of justice in Monroe County; and WHEREAS, Salvation ARMY has Piovided probation services to the COURT and the COURT desires that the ARMY continue such services pursuant to a written understanding which establishes minimum standards of service and financiaJ accountability for the ARMY; and WHEREAS. the CHIEF JUDGE of the COURT requests the COUNTY to execute this CONTRACT: .;. Page 1 of 9 NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and provisions contained herein, and for b other valuable consideration received by the parties, the COUNTY and the ARMY agree u follows: L TERM AND RENEWAL The term of the CONTRACT shall begin at the data abov~ . written, upon signatures of all parties and shall remain in effect for thirty-six (36) months or until terminated by either party hereinafter started. This CONTRACT may be canceled for just cause by either party. However, the CIRCUIT, after advising the A~ in ~ting of detici~cies, . must allows the ARMY ninety (90) days to bring the program Into comphance. If comphance IS ~ attained, the CONTRAcr period will continued unimpaired. Future noncompliance will be handled u above. If there is continued non-compliance after ninety (90) days, the CONTRACT can be canceled after thirty (30) days written notice. D. SCOPE OF CONTAcr. The ARMY agrees to provide the following services to the COURT and court-ordered probationers under their supervision consistent with standards and criteria of the Florida Department of Corrections: A The ARMY shaJJ assign in-court representatives in each COUNTY courthouse to provide proper liaison with the COURT and for initial intake of persons placed on misdemeanor I probation with the ARMY. B. The ARMY shalJ have, either on staff or on an on-call basis, interpreters to assist non-En8Jish speaking probationers in understanding and meeting the terms of probation. C. The hours ofoper&tion of the ARMY shall be flexible to encourage employment of the probationer. The ARMY shaIl provide weekend and/or evening hours by appointment when ' necessary for continued employment of the probationer. D. The ARMY shall prepare a written plan of need which is to be addressed during the period of supervision on each probationer. The ARMY shall maintain separate case files containing information on all cases referred to the misdemeanor probation program. Records shaJl be maintained for a period of three (3) years past the termination of probation. The information in the file shaD include the name of the probationer, .... number, charge(.), COURT order(.) relating to supervision, intake and su~8ion reports, payment records of restitution and COurt-ordered fees, data and time records of in-office and field contacts with the probationer, records of community service work hours, report of treatment programs or other special conditions of the COURT, ~puter house arrest records, any known prior crimina) record, reports of violation, report oftemunation, Ind probation disposition. E. The ARMY shaD provide a minimum of one monthly probationer contact, either through mail or in person, for counseling and/or SUpervision, unless waived by the COURT. ...... .; Page 2 of 9 F. The ARMY agrees to provide all probation service as directed by the COURT and shall follow up and enforce special conditions of probation including but not limited to: ~ i Restitution n Fines and Court Cost m Evaluation and treatment iv Community Service v Cost of Supervision vi Procurement of Licenses G. The ARMY shall place priority on supervision of the payment of restitution to probationers" victim(s). Waivers by the COURT orany special condition of probation shall be noted in the case file. !". H. The ARMY is entitled to collect from each probationer costs of supervision as may be ordered by the COURT and as authorized by Florida Statutes B948.09(1991). Any failure to pay such costs shall constitute a ground for the revocation of probation by the COURT. This amount is currently established at forty-five dollars ($4S .00) per month. The Chief ludge shall review tlus amount at least annually and may order an increase or decrease for new cases. I. The COURT may exempt a probationer from the payment of an or any part of the cost of supervision under a determination of extenuating circumstances. As wen, the ARMY may exempt a probationer from payment ofall or any part of the costs of supervision ifany of the following factors are found to exist through actual documentation: i. The probationer has diligently attempted but has been unabfe to obtain employment which provides him with sufficient income t~ make such payments. ii~ The probationer is a student in a sChool college, university, or course of vocational or technical training designed to prepare the student for gainful employment. Certification of such students status shall be provided to the AGENCY by the educational institution in which the probationer is enroned. ill. The probationer has an employment handicap as detennined by a physical, psychological, or psychiatric examination acceptable to, or ordered by, the COURT. iv. The probationer's age prevents him or her from obtaining employment. v. The probationer is responsible for the support of dependents, and the payment of such costs of SUpervision constitutes and undue hardship on the probationer. J. The ARMY ~half~~ payment of all fees only by certified check or money order made Page 3 of 9 payable to the Salvation Army. The ARMY shall establish a program which allows individuals assigned to the program to pay court-ordered obligations in monthly installments. All sums payable to the Clerk of the Court and to victims shall be deposited into an escrow account usable only for such payments. Payments of Fines and Court Costs shall be made in accordance with a schedule to be developed by the Clerk of the CourtlChiefFinanclal Officer of Monroe Co~nty. K. The ARMY shall establish and maintain a Community Service Work program which will allow conversion of Fines and lor Court Cost into community service work hours. The sentencing judge will detcnnine 'eligibility of defendants for this program. The program will be implemented in accordance with the provisions of the order provided by the COURT. Community Service Work hours submitted by probationers win be verified either in writing or by phone by the ARMY prior to being credited in fulffilment of the conditions of probation ordered by the COURT. L. The needs of each case referred to the ARMY by the COURT shall be evaluated by the ARMY. The ARMY shaIt detennine ifrefcrrecl probationers require other services in addition to those ordered by the COURT and shall use its best efForts to direct probationers to appropriate programs. Records of referrals to such programs and progress reports shalJ be included in the case file. Should the ARMY deem any additional program participation necessary, and application for modification of probation shall be made to the sentencing COURT. . M. In order to be considered as completed, all non-monetary conditions of probation imposed by the COURT shall be verified in writing from the appropriate- agency. N. The fee !chedule and program cOntent of any outside agency providing services or programs which fulfill conditions of probation Ire subject to review by the COURT. O. The ARMY shall encourage unemployed probationers to improve their employability through referrals to schools and training. P. The A~ shall maintain regular contact with all treatment agencies, schools, and other programs to which offenders are referred. In any case where a treatment agency, school, or other program does not appear to be providing its proper function, the ARMY shall notifY the COURT. Q. Proposed or~erCo~probation violation, probation modification, and tennination orders as Page 4 of 9 appropriate shall be prepared by the ARMY. R. In any case where COURT jurisdiction has been lost prior to all conditions of probation being satisfied by the offender, the ARMY shalt transmit a copy of the case file to the judge in whose division the case has been heard. The probationer counselor shall transmit, with the case tile, a cover letter on ARMY letterhead outlining in detail the efforts made by that counselor to seek compliance with the terms of probation. ~ S. The ARMY shall have or wilt secure at their own expense, all necessary personnel to perfonn the services under this CONTRACT. Such persoMeJ shall not be employees of or have any contractual relationship with the COUNTY, the COURT, or any law enforcement agency. T. All newly hired probation officers and supervisors shall possess a B.A. degree from an accredited CoIJege or University or have an equivalent combination of education and experience. A thorough background check in accordance with essential standards established by the American Correctional Association as of1anuary 1, 1991 shall be conducted of all newly hired probati6n officers and supervisors to detennine that the person is of good character and has no felony or other conviction involving dishonesty or deceit. U. The ARMY shall maintain a staffing level of professional employees which wiJl'ensure caseloads of no more than 180 cases. V. This CONTRAcr shaD be applicable to all probation cases currently assigned to the ARMY u well u any new cases. . m. RECORDS. The ARMY shall maintain auditable financial records of all Fines , Restitutions, and SUperVision Fees received and disbuned by the ARMY. A financial report shall be provided to the Chief 1ud~ 10IthIn (90) days tbDowIng the close of the ARMY'S fiscal year. The ~ shoD also rec:oro and maintain statistical data concerning tbe number and type of CD"! being handl~, termtnated, ~d .compl~ u weD u such additional infonnarion as may be required by the Chief 1udge to ISSJst m evaluating the effectiveness of the ARMY'S activities. .. .' Pages of 9 Representatives of the Auditor General of the State ofFtorida, the Court Administrator, the Clerk of the Court, the Board of County Commissioners, the Chief Judge or their duly authorized representatives shall have authorization to visit the ARMY'S probation facilities periodically and to have access for purposes of examination, any books, documents, papers, and records of the .ARMY as they relate to this CONTRAcr. " " The ARMY shall maintain adequate records to justify all charges, expenses, and cost incurred in estimating and performing the work as well as records of payments received and disbursed f~r at least three (3) years. " IV. REPoRTS. A monthly statistical report of activities shall be submitted to the COURT.> . v. INSURANCE. The ARMY shall obtain an insurance and bonding required under this CONTRAcr. All insurance polices and security bonds shall be issued by companies authorized to do business under the laws of the State of Florida. The ARMY shall furnish Certificates of Insurance to the COURT. The Certificates shall clearly indicate that the ARMY has obtained insurance of the type, amount, and classification as required for compliance with this CONTRACf and that ,no material change or cancellation of the insurance shall be effective without thirty (30) days prior written notice to the COURT. Compliance with the foregoing requirement shall not relieve the .ARMY of Its Jlability and obligations under this CONTRACT. The ARMY shall maintain, during the time this CONTRAcr is in effect. comprehensive general liability insurance in a minimum amount of$500,000 per occurrence to protect the ARMY from claims for damages for bodily and personal injury, including wrongful death, as well as any claims for property damage which may arise from any operation under this CONTRAcr, whether such operations be by the ARMY or by anyone directJy employed by or contracting with the ARMY. . The policy shall also contain a hold hannJess clause for Monroe County. . VL NOTICE. Pursuant to this agreement, notice shall be given in writing by U.S. Mail, certifled return receipt requested, addressed as fonows: ",,',- Page 6 of 9 The s.itI~:._mB~~ent . 1930Flaa!erAwnue Key West, Florida 33040 \ ! . ~ - i I The "CBIEP JUDGE" The Chief ludae of the Sixteenth 1udicial Circuit / 500 Whlthead Street Key West, Florida 33040 , The "COUNTY" Monroe COUnty Board of County Commissioners 310 Flemina Key West, Florida 33040 VB. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This written agreement contains the sole and entire agreement between the COUNTY an the ARMY. ~d supersedes any and all other agreements between ~m. / ~ I i I , vm. WAIVER OR MODMCA n/ON. No waiver or modification of the agreement or any covenant, condition or limitation h~Jn contained shall be valid unlesl in writing and duly CDCecuted by the parties thereto. / " , I IX. CONTRAcr GOVERNED )1Y FLORIDA LAW. This agreement and perfonnance hereunder and all suits and specialliroceedin.. thereunder shall be construed in accordance with thelaWl of the State of Florida. The, venue for any litigation arising under this contract will be in Monroe County, Florida. x. SEVERABD..ITY. If any provir.Jon. or any portion thereof, contained in this agreement is held unconstitutional, invalid, or un~forceablet tho remainder ofthJs agreement, or portion thereof shall be deemed severable, shaD not be a1rected and shall remain in fUll force and effect. Page 7 of 9 /- XL STATEMENT OF ASSURANCE. During the performance of this agreement, the ARMY herein assures the COUNTY that the ARMY is in compliance with Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act as amended and the Florida Human Rights Act of 1977 in that the ARMY does not, on the grounds of racot color, national origin, religion. sex, age, handicap, or marital status, discriminate in any fonn or manner against the ARMY"S employees, applicants for employment, or clients. The ARMY understands and agrees that this Agreement is, conditioned upon the veracity of this Statement of AJsuranco. Furthermore, the ARMY herein assures the COUN1Y that the ARMY will comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 when any federal grant(s) is/are involved. Other applicable federal and state laws, executive orders, and regulations < prohibiting the type of discrimination as hereinabove delineated are included by this reference thereto. This Statement of Assuranco shall be interpreted to include Vietnam-Era Veterans and Disabled Veterans within its protective range ofappUcability. ....'.. .j, PageS of 9 IN WITNEss WHEREOF, the COUNlY has executed and signed this agreement through its Chainnan. and duly attested by its Clerk and the ARMY has signed and executed this agreement, u set forth below. ST: DANNY .L. KOLHAOB, Clerk OF TIm CIRCUIT COURT 0"';' : ~NROE COUNTY FLORIDA . C> -'- C~_) -. <- ;':' .. , L:: c:: .. ,--- :z: J I"l"'!;:.;;-<. (")' - W ".r~ 0(") : 'C 0 C:;:Q~ ::"0 z. 0 ~ :::0 ....n,.... :<:-t::z: - iTl .." > - C"') .. 0 ,.... C) N > rn :::0 ...... 0 AllES!: 8 ARJ,fY:,'mB ,V AnON ARMYt :y~ OAVlO R. MOTHERSH,~ Printed Namo of Signer ASSISTANT TREASURER Title .yo. 4: Page 9 of 9 .----,. --,\ Certificate of Insurance ''I llilSCERTlFlCATEISNOT AN THIS CERTIFICATE IS ISSUED AS A MATTER OF IN!' : lTlON OERNL~ ANE CDO;O~~~ ~~<;'~;;B~~~ ';6~I~~\~l>I~~~~?LDER, INSURANCE POLICY AND DOES NOT AMEND, EXTbJ..Ll, OR ALT ,n This Is to Certify that I THE SAt V A nON AP.MY 1424 NORTIlEAST EXPRESSWAY A TLANT A, GEORGIA 30329 '~. .# ~ Liberty, ~ MutuaITU Name and f-- address of Insured. L, ..........(IM) 1st d i The Inswance affor.ded ~ the bled p'olIey(Ies) Is s'cject to aI!heIr terms. exc:luslons la. .: L'le ~SU., elate of this certificated by . InIWequlrad ~ =~~ ;="lonb'ad ; olher dOr.ument with rlllJpect'to which this CCItificate may be iuued, ..,d ccnd.cc';)S IInd la r.cl liter' any r ........... "1 EXP. DP.TE , · 0 CONTINUOU~ lYPE OF .OLICY [1EXTENC~O.... [( LlCY - t WORKERS 10/0112001 COMPENSATION POLICY "JUMBER LIMIT OF LlABlLllY , EMPLOYERS L1ABIUTY Bodily Injury By AccIdent $1.000,000 ~ent Bodily Injury By Di;;ease $1,000,000 ~ Bodily Injury By Disease $1,000,000 Eac:h ompIeted perallons WA 1-650-004052-270 COVERAGE A."'FORDED UNDER we LAW OF THE FOLlO'MNG STATES: ALAR DC FLGAKY LAMD MS NC OK SC TN TIC VA GENEHAL L1ABILllY 1010112001 R<32~51~052-260 Aggregate- $5,000,000 ProductalCompleted Operations Aggregate '500,000 BodIly Injury and Property Damage liability ,000 Pe~onallnjury ~ OCCURRENCE o CLAIMS MADE '''~,.'' .Y .:__~ - ... ATl_~j~D{ 14!\,[: ~YES . Per Oc:cumlnc:e rOn.TE UTOMOBILE L1ABILlT 10/0112001 $500,000 Per PersonI Organization ~ OWNED ~ NON-OWNED ~ HIRED OTHER Other $500,000 Each Ac:ddent ~ Single Umit 8.1. and P.O. Combined Each Person Each Accident or Occurrence ~Umg. Fo", Each Acc:Ident or Occurrence Customer Is self Insured for Physical Damage ADDmONAL COMMENTS LISTED AS ADDITIONAL INSUREDS AS THEIR INTEREST MAY APPEAR: MONROE COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, 5100 COLLE<3E RD., KEY WEST. FL 33040 . If the cel1ifIcale exlllr8llon date Is continuous or extencled term, you wi be notified,lf coverage Is lemllnated or reduc:ed before the CllI1ific8te expinlllon elate. SPECIAL N011CE.oIUO: >>It PERSON.~ Vt'ITH INTENT TO DEFRAUD OR I<HO\MNO, ~T.H&, IS, FACILITATING A, FRAUD AGAINST AN INSURER, SUBMITS AN APPLICATION OR FILES A CLAlU CX>>fl'_ A FAUlE OR DECEPTIVE STATEMENT IS G~TY OF INSURANCE FRAUD, IMPORTANT N011CE TO Ft.ORIDo\ POUCYtlOLDERS AND CERTII'lCATE HOLDER.I: IN THE EVEHl' YOU WoVE >>It QUESTIONS OR NEED INFORMATION . ABOUT lltIS CER'llFICATE FOR >>It REASON, PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL SALES PAOOUCER. WHOlE NAIll AND TELEP NUIIIIER APPEARS IN THE Liberty Mutual Group LOWER RIGHT HAND CORNU OF THIS CERllFlCATE. THE APPROPRIATE LOCAL 8ALES OFFICE MAILING A.DORESS MAY ALSO AlNED BY ~ TNS ~, CANcELlATION: /NOT APPLICABLE UNLESS A NUUBER OF 00\Y8 II ENTEREDIELOW.) BEFORE THE aTA TION Oo\TE THE ~ CANCEL OR RECUCE THE INSOIWICE AFFORDED UNDER THE AIIIJVP. POLICIES l.M1I. AT lJ!AST 30 . I 5051 A-8 CER11FlCATE Monroe County Board of County Comm. HOLDER 5100 Colle~e Road Room 203 L!.ey West, FL 33040 . Lan a F. Childs AUTHORIZeD REPRESENTATIVE Norcross; GA (770) 564-0400-" . 6/112001 OFFICE PHONE NUMBER DATE ISSUED ~ Exhibit B Letter From The Salvation Army " ,. JOHN GOWANS , GENERAL ~I../) ~ .I wile ~uluntinn Army Founded in 1865 by WUUam Booth Monroe County Administration 1920 Flagler Avenue. P.O. Box 2878. Key West FL 33045 Telephone (305) 294-5611 . Fax (305) 294-0478 RAYMOND COOPER TERRITORIAL COMMANDER r- LT, COLONEL DONALD FAULKNER DIVISIONAL COMMANDER CAPTAINS DAVID & DAWN WORTHY CORPS OFFICERS August 15, 2002 .. ,.' \~" Sandra L Mathena Director of Internal Audits 500 Whitehead Street Key West, FL 33040 .. Re: Misdemeanor Offender SUDervision Services Contract Audit Dear Ms. Mathena, Per your discussion with Jim Gannont in the recent monthst The Salvation Army Correctional Services Office has experienced an immense 100% turnover in staff which made for some difficulties, especially as it relates to the disbursement of fine and restitution monies. Mr. Gannon was immediately tasked with imp~oving internal controls, providing the necessary level of increased management and leadership and improving the overall condition and quality of our correctional services program and he immediately instituted new policies and procedures aimed at succinctly and expeditiously improving the outlay of monies. I trust that your visit to our offices solidified the fact that our operations have been vastly and monumentally improved under Mr. Gannon's leadership. We believe that the progressive changes that have been recently implemented are paving the way for continued and exponential progress in the handling of fines and restitution monies. In order to resolve the backlog of fines and restitution disbursements, we have secured the able assistance of our state correctional services office in Tampa. Due to our local staff's short tenure and severe caseload, our state office's assistance is vital to ensuring that fine and restitution monies are completely disbursed expeditiously. Our lofty yet obtainable goal is to have a check representing all monies due to the Clerk of Court in your possession within the next three weeks. Regarding the audit, it would certainly be helpful if we could have 60 days to complete the process of distributing fundst including restitution, to ,;;tdequately prepare for the audit. I trust that my comments herein adequately outline the fact that months ago we identified the need for policy, procedural and personnel changes within the department. We have a pr.oven track record of fiscal and managerial responsibility and we in~d to continue ensuring that our services are provided at the,highest level and with the 'greatest care possible. Serving All the Florida Keys Social Service 1920 Flag1~!_ Aye. , Key West, FL 33040 (305) 294-5611 (305) 294-0478 Fax Thrift Store 1924 Flagler Ave. Key West, FL 33040 (305) 294-5622 Thrift Store Social Service 10896 Overseas Hwy. 2845 Overseas Hwy. Suite I, Montaldo Bldg. ~tlion;-FL ;33050 Summerland Key, FL33042 (305) 743~9410 1305} 745-3327 '(305) 743-8129 Fax . Thrift Store 2835 Overseas Hwy. Marathon, FL 33050 (305) 743-0054 Thrift Store 100109 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo, FL 330~ (305)451-2882 / ~ . I do look forward to hearing from you regarding your thoughts and direction on these matters. , I Sincerely, ~ Captain David Worthy Commanding Officer The Salvation Army Monroe County, FL ......,. ,., Copy: Danny Kolhage, Clerk of Court James Gannon, Salvation Army Correctional Services Director , Major Gary Haupt, The Salvation Army, General Secretary, State Headquarters / '" Exhibit C Assistant County Attorney Opinion / .OUNTY oLMONROE KEYWEST ~ I~ORDA33040 (305)~1 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MAYOR Charles 'Sonny" Me(Ay, District 3 .I Mayor Pro tern Dixie Spehar. District 1 Murl'QY Nelson, District 5 ~rge Neugent, District 2 Bert Jimenez, District 4 - .. Office of the County Attorney PO Box 1026 K~y West, FL 33041~1026 305/292-3470 - Phone 305/292-3516~ Fax . ... ....~". MEMORANDUM ... TO: Sandy Mathena Internal Audit FROM: Suzanne A. Hutton ~.' Assistant County Attorney,," DATE: October 11, 2002 SUBJECT: Salvation Army Supervision Services Amy Heavilin wrote a memo on September 11, 2002 requesting a legal interpretation with respect to the Salvation Army's contract with Monroe County for supervision services for misdemeanor offenses. Specifically, she asked whether the Salvation Army should be submitting unclaimed monies held in their escrow account to the State Department of Unclaimed Property. I have a number of problems with this situation. However, with respect to any amounts in the escrow account which indeed are unclaimed, the statutes would require said monies to be turned over to the I)epartment of Banking and Finance if they have remained in the escrow account longer than five years after the termination of probation and any government agencies entitled to any of the funds have been provided reports of the collections to which they are entitled. ' Since Section 775.089(3), Florida Statutes, allows a defendant to pay restitution in installments over a period no longer than his probation, which can exceed three years, or the period of his incarceration plus five years, I have a hard time believing that it is intended that at the end of five years of money being in the escrow account, ,it should immediately be turned over to Banking and Finance. Instead, it appears that the more appropriate method of operation is for the escrow account holder to give proper notice to any potential government claimant and to use the date of that notice as the basis for the running of the five years for any specific sum of money. There is in fact an Attorney General opii:tion that states that the limitation period begins to run from the date that the person entitled thereto, would be entitled to claim the possession thereof and not <.> from the date of the deposit in the court. AGO 064-47. ,. '':'" ,# Sandy Mathena Salvation Army October 10, 2002 Page 2 . I Further, there are provisions.i.p the criminal code for the payments ordered by the court for cost of supervision and rehabilitation to be used to offset the actual cost of the Department of Corrections associated with community supervision programs [F.S. 948.09(1)]. Provisions for State Attorney's collections of monies that are deposited into the State Attorney's grants and donations trust fund have specificity for use within the year collected. However, the monies in question are those that are received by the Salvation Army and should ~ disbursed for the purposes for which they were collected, which would require some reporting to the appropriate entities as to the monies that have been collected and which are distributable to those entities, whether to the Clerk of Courts or State Attorney's Office. The laws dealing with victims seeking restitution does seem to place the burdenoon the victim to seek the restitution award without being noticed of its availability. The time would start running at the end of probation. I hope that this information is of use in the continuation of your audit. If you have any questions, please feel free to call. Exhibit D Letter from Court Administrator .' ,# . I SIXTEENTH JUDICIAL CmCUIT OF FLORIDA. TJDaBIl& D. WB8TBU'DII.D COURT ADMINISTRATOR '- April 2, 2003 ... "'~'-....... ' Sandra L. Mathena Internal Auditing Clerk of the Court 500 Whitehead Street, Suite 101 Key West, FL 33040 Dear Ms, Mathena, MONROE COUNTY COURTHOUSE ANNEX 500 WHITEHEAD STREET KEY WEST. F'LORIDA 330.-0 TELEPHONE (305) 282' 3423 SUNCOM: ,,_,3423 TELE,.AX (305) 282-3435 ... This is in response to your letter of March 31,2003 wherein you asked whether the Salvation Army provided annual financial reports to the Chief Judge pursuant to their contract filed for record on June 30,2001. I have been unable to locate any financial reports provided by the Salvation Army to the Chief Judge. ~D- Theresa D, Westerfield cc: The Honorable Richard G. Payne, Chief Judge Exhibit E Monthly Statistical Report .' ~) ~.", r ""'1 . -.; . .... " . I THE SALVATIONARMY MONROE COUN..TY CORRECTIONAL SERVICES 4 ^. STATISICAL REPORT FOR MAY 2003. KEY WEST AND MARATHON , Key West Marathon Client's under ACTIVE SUPERVISION: # 582 # 299 NEW CLIENT'S received this month: # 179 # 56 Client's SUCCESSFULL Y TERMINATED: # 113 # 30 Client's TERMED BY COURT: # 39 # 6 Client's supervised FREE OF COST or at a . REDUCED FEE: COl\1NlUNITY SERVICE HOURS completed: # 11 # 4 #1339 # '687 FULL TIME E1MJ>LOYEE'S PART TIJv1E E1v.1PLOYEE'S # 4 # 0 # 2 # 1 -" VII. AUDITEE RESPONSES July 31, 2003 Danny L. Kolhage Monroe County Clerk of Circuit Court Key West, Florida 33040 Re: Audit Response - Salvation Army Misdemeanant Program Dear Mr. Kolhage, Per your request, following is The Salvation Army's response to the fmdings of the audit recently conducted of our misdemeanant probation program. Item A The Salvation Army certainly understands that utilizing escrow monies for any purpose other than that relating directly to the outlay and distribution ofF & R monies is not permissible. In fact, doing so directly counters Salvation Army policy, and internally, we would never knowingly allow such a practice to occur. I was not in command in 1998 nor did The Salvation Army condone such an act, but I can assure you that it has not occurred since nor will it occur in the future, Item B The Salvation Army is in the process of determining and identifying the remaining outstanding funds so that the monies can be disbursed properly in a timely manner and we will comply with the law in the distribution of those unidentified monies. In other counties this money has been sent to the State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance. Item C Salvation Army bookkeeper, Tom Wagner, will be formally instructed on procedures related to clearing outstanding amounts. Checks not cleared in six months will be voided and reissued in a second attempt to locate the payee. If the victim cannot be found, checks will be reissued to the State of Florida Department of Banking and Finance as per instructions of the Assistant County Attorney. I, as officer in charge, will continue to monitor our process for check distribution to ensure that they are processed, cut and mailed in the most efficient manner possible. Item D We have been lax in the requirement that annual fmanciaI reports be submitted to the Chief Judge as per the contract requirement. This report and all other required accountability documentation will be submitted to the proper parties within the outlined contractual deadlines. Item E The issue of not submitting reports to the judges has been rectified and reports dating back through January 2003 have been sent to all judges. Item F Again, Salvation Army policy mandates that monies from escrow accounts not be used for any purpose other than those explicitly allowed for by the account. I, as officer in charge, will monitor the escrow account to ensure that this situation never occurs again. I can assure you at this time that all monies have been replaced in the escrow account. Item G The Salvation Army's Territorial (regional) Finance Department determines the setup of our accounting functions. I have no authority to change the manner in which these accounts are set-up or functionalized, however, I will make certain that our fmance department understands that this audit has expressed concern regarding this issue. Please understand, though, that these funds are auditable at any time per our contract. Item H As we understand it, the collection of the public defender application fee is the Clerk of the Court's responsibility per Florida Statute 27.52, as is the notification of nonpayment to the court. It is The Salvation Army's responsibility to have clients comply only with conditions first ordered by the courts. The Salvation Army does not have the authority to order clients to comply with conditions which have not been ordered by the court. In order to ensure the accuracy of the sentence ordered by the court, the Clerk of the Court should be responsible for typing the court orders and then relaying a copy to The Salvation Army. Out of necessity, we have taken on the responsibility traditionally belonging to the Clerk in obtaining information from court minutes and completing court orders for the judges to sign. This has proven to be both costly and time consuming. Item I The Salvation Army will reimburse the Clerk of the Court for the $10,017.50 allegedly stolen by former probation counselor, William Rodriguez (see attached check). Employee theft has been a serious and most unfortunate problem in the past, however, it is important to note the responsiveness of The Salvation Army in handling this issue. Once the Army became aware of records falsification and alleged theft, an internal investigation was conducted and local law enforcement agencies were notified, who subsequently, conducted follow-up, official investigations of their own. Additionally, we have both implemented new and strengthened existing standing policies related to fmancial accountability with our counselors. As an example, when a probationer makes a payment, the payment process begins with the counselor entering the information into the computer to generate a receipt. The probationer then walks the actual payment into the office of the receptionist who receives the money. The receipt for monies owed/paid (entered into the computer by the counselor) is then printed by the receptionist to ensure that the payment owed and payment made match up. In the past, misappropriation of funds by employees has primarily occurred when there was only one employee involved in the transaction. I might also note that while there has been significant turnover, the staffmg level in each office is proportionate to the number of cases being supervised and does not relate to theft or the falsification of records. Item J The Salvation Army Divisional (state) Correctional Services Department staff has committed to offering any and all employee training that will further enhance our staff's ability to effectively operate and meet client's needs, Further, the commanding officer and senior administrative staffwill ensure that probation personnel submit all required reports. The Salvation Army only commits to programs that we believe will further assist people in their most desperate of times. Our international mission statement reads, in part, that we exist, "... to meet human needs... without discrimination." We are an international organization with one underlying objective - to reach out to people in need. The intent of our correctional services program in Monroe County is to complete that mission. Throughout the state of Florida, our misdemeanant and residential correctional services programs have excellent records of service and accountability in their respective communities. It is most unfortunate that we have not fulfilled all of our obligations regarding our misdemeanant contract with Monroe County. We truly regret this. Without casting blame on anyone person, we have been reminded that we are an organization made up of and driven by people. People make mistakes. People make misjudgments. After I arrived in 2001, it became obvious to me that we had numerous personnel and management challenges within the program. Soon thereafter, we terminated (both voluntarily and involuntarily) all employees in the Key West office. We hired a new director and new probation counselors. Since that time, things have markedly improved and efficiency, although not at its potential peak, has greatly increased. The audit conducted by the county has certainly aided us in specifically determining the areas in which we need to continue to work. We have a renewed commitment to the county to' ensure that the terms of our contract are strictly adhered to and that every probation client receives the highest level of service possible. Further, I can state in good conscience that The Salvation Army Correctional Services (misdemeanant) Program has turned the comer and is rapidly moving forward to increasing our effectiveness and level of accountability, both to the Courts and to the public. I hope that I have adequately responded to the fmdings of your audit and I look forward to securing a fmal disposition regarding its contents. May God bless you! ~ David Worthy, Captain The Salvation Army Monroe County, Florida Copy: Major Gary Haupt - Divisional Headquarters Jim Gannon - CS Director Nonnal Nonnal Default Paragraph Font Default Paragraph Font Table Nonnal Table Nonnal No List No List * um:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags Postal Code * urn :schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags * urn :schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags * urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags * urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags * urn :schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags * urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags Disaster Disaster Unknowny Times New Roman Times New Roman Symbol Symbol July 31, 2003 July 31, 2003 Disaster Disaster Disaster Disaster July 31, 2003 Disaster Nonnal Disaster Microsoft Word 10.0 The Salvation Army July 31, 2003 Root Entry 1 Table P laceName P lace Type 1 Table WordDocument WordDocument SurnmaryInfonnation SurnmaryInfonnation DocumentSurnmaryInfonnation DocumentSurnmaryInfonnation CompObj CompObj Microsoft Word Document MSWordDoc W ord.Document.8 THE SALVATION ARMY - CORRECTIONS ACCOUNT 11828 INVOICE INVOICE NUMBER DATE 07/31 W. .07/31/03 DESCRIPTION GROSS AMOUNT DISCOUNT NET AMOUNT WILLIAM RODRIGU~Z $10,017.50 $0.00 $10,017.50 CHECK NO, 11828 $0.00 $10,017.50 Page: 1