The McLeod County Board on Tuesday approved the purchase of new case-management software for the County Attorney's Office at a cost of $49,623, with funds to come from the county's public safety aid account. The software is intended to replace the county's long-used Minnesota County Attorney Practice System (MCAPS).

The attorney's office described the system as the office's core case-management platform for criminal, civil and administrative files and for managing evidence (including audio and video) and victim contact services. The presentation noted the replacement product integrates with the various vendors used by law enforcement and other agencies and includes commercial updates plus in-house configurability; staff said that will reduce future vendor-dependent upgrade costs and save staff time.

The presentation said MCAPS has been used for decades and many offices are moving away from it. The board discussed efficiency and accuracy benefits; one commissioner said accuracy and streamlined checks are “much improved.” Commissioner Krueger moved, Commissioner Wright seconded, and the board approved the purchase by voice vote.