Law Enforcement Trust Fund Grants (LETF)

The Wilton Manors Police Department (WMPD) recognizes the vast quantity of services that not-for-profit organizations provide the community and residents of Wilton Manors. We understand Law Enforcement Forfeiture Trust Funds (LETF) are vital to our mission of connecting with youth and providing programs, mentorships and assistance, and is committed to supporting these agencies in any way we can. As such, we provide this information to assist eligible organizations with applying for these funds, and that these funds are distributed equitably to the most qualified, deserving organizations.

Under the auspices of Florida State Statutes 932.701 thru 932.706, "Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act," the WMPD has funds available for distribution that support the residents and community of Wilton Manors. These funds are better known by their common name - Law Enforcement Trust Funds (LETF).

The Florida State Statute (FSS) was established to allow law enforcement agencies to seize and forfeit any contraband that have been used in the commissions of felonies. This includes vehicles, vessels, aircraft, real property, cash or any other items of value. The cash or proceeds from a sale of the seized items go into the Law Enforcement Trust Fund account for use by the law enforcement agency.

Under the law, the City of Wilton Manors City Commission is responsible for holding the funds in the trust until they are used. However, a feature of the FSS allows WMPD to use these funds for community purposes. FSS 932.7055 states:

Any local law enforcement agency that acquires at least $15,000 pursuant to the Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act within a fiscal year must expend or donate no less than 25% of such proceeds for the support or operation of any drug treatment, drug abuse education, drug prevention, crime prevention, safe neighborhood, or school resource officer program. The local law enforcement agency has the discretion to determine which program or programs will receive the designated proceeds.

Law Enforcement Trust Fund - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is the Law Enforcement Trust Fund (LETF)?
LETF contains funds awarded to the WMPD as a result of successful forfeiture litigation in State court and participation in the Federal Asset Forfeiture and Equitable Sharing Program. In accordance with FSS 932.7055(5)(a), the Statute requires no less than 25% of the last fiscal year’s revenues be given in the form of grants to nonprofit programs.

Who is eligible to apply for an LETF grant?
Nonprofit organizations in good standing and with an active 501(c)(3) are eligible to apply. The organization must serve the residents and community of Wilton Manors. LETF funding is allocated fairly to a variety of programs in Wilton Manors to address gaps in service needs. Organization recipients have included entities such as schools, community-based non-profits and foundations, behavioral health agencies, and youth programs.

What types of programs may receive LETF grants? What activities and services can be funded through this grant?
Applicants must successfully incorporate into their proposed programs LETF statutory requirements (Crime Prevention, Safe Neighborhood, Drug Abuse Prevention and Education) as well as our police department’s priority initiatives: Diverting youth from the criminal justice system, reducing gun violence, and programs that assist the homeless and mentally ill. The proposed program must serve residents of Wilton Manors.

Many funded programs work in the school systems to encourage youth to perform well academically, stay in school, focus on career planning and secondary education, and foster teamwork and personal growth. LETF programs also address the unique needs of children in the foster care system, LGBTQ+ youth, domestic violence survivors, and those with histories of mental health and/or substance abuse.

How are LETF request for grant applications submitted to WMPD?
Applications may be submitted for consideration anytime, and applications are available at our police station. Applicants must ensure applications are submitted per instructions guidelines to include all required signatures, notarizations, and attachments. Applications that fail to meet the minimum submission criteria may result in the application being denied. Applications can be delivered to the Wilton Manors Police Department, Office of the Chief in person or via mail at 2020 Wilton Drive, Wilton Manors, Florida, 33305.

How are LETF requests for grants applications reviewed by WMPD?
LETF requests for grants is very competitive due to a large pool of interested applicant organizations. All applications that meet minimum submission criteria are reviewed by the Office of the Chief to affirm an organization’s eligibility.

How can I inquire more about the LETF grant?
Inquiries can be made to the Office of the Chief by calling (954) 390-2158, or via email at LETF@wmpd.org.

LETF Grant Application & Instructions
1. LETF Grant Application