The McLeod County Board on Tuesday approved the county attorney’s office request to purchase new case management software at a cost of $49,623, with payment coming from public safety aid funds. County attorneys described the software as a replacement for the Minnesota County Attorney Practice System (MCAPS) and as the core system for managing criminal, civil and administrative case files, as well as integrating with law enforcement and other agencies that provide electronic evidence.

Presenters said the proposed system provides vendor-maintained commercial software combined with in-house customization, which they expect will reduce ongoing vendor dependency and save staff time. The system also would manage victim contact services and streamline exchanges of documents, audio and video with courts, defense counsel and partner agencies.

Commissioners asked about system age and interoperability; presenters said MCAPS has been used for decades and that the new vendor (referred to in the meeting as 'Carpell') has strong integration with vendors used by local law enforcement. Commissioners said improved efficiency and accuracy were anticipated. The board voted to approve the purchase; the motion carried.