FAR 13.106-1(b) Determination_25CYD0017.pdf

405-146 (MRSD/PRO)

MEMORANDUM TO THE CONT RACT FILE

REQUISITION: 25CYD0017

SUBJECT: FAR 13.106-1(b), Soliciting from a single source

1. Requisition 25CYD0017 is issued for the procurement of the DiskLabs LB4-USB Faraday Laboratory Box Large with USB 3 Port and the DiskLabs TS2 Tablet Shield 2 with window.

2. IAW FAR13.106-1(b), Soliciting from a single source (1) For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold. (i) Contracting officers may solicit from one source if the contracting officer determines that the circumstances of the contract action deem only one source reasonably available (e.g., urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand-name or industrial mobilization).

3. Background: Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Partner Organizations requested training on the use of Faraday equipment and other seizure tools commonly utilized by law enforcements during their daily duties. During the Curriculum Review Conference (CRC), FLETC adjusted current curriculum to add training on these tools and equipment. In addition to the requirement for training equipment at FLETC, the Partner organizations also requested that each student would depart the class with a Faraday Kit consisting of a Faraday Laboratory Box and Tablet Shields.

4. Market Research. The Cyber Division continuously conducts market research of current and new technology available. This market research includes the attendance of trade shows and conferences. The team attended the National Cyber Crime Conference, NSA National Sheriffs Association summer and winter conferences, SETIA Conference, and also conduct FLETC Cyber Conferences. These conferences allow the instructors to see and research the current market availability of Faraday type equipment. These products range in quality, durability and effectiveness. In addition, hands on testing was conducted of the DiskLabs products as well as vendors to include Paraben, Oxygen, Edec, and a few other open-source tools. In May 2024, the cyber division procured a brand name or equal product for use in their training classes. This product proved to be inferior to the Disklabs Faraday products. The Lab Faraday Boxes purchased were of a much less rigid design which lends them to being easily torn during set up and break down. Such tears result in complete failure in blocking signals from entering the bags/boxes. Failures of that magnitude are unacceptable in the field and will result in lost evidence and lost cases. The instructors cannot in good conscience continue to distribute those boxes to the students.

DiskLabs are the only product that currently meets the standards of the Partner Organization and meets the delivery requirements. DiskLabs products best support the law enforcement mission of the FLETC Partner Organizations.

5. Purchase will be utilized for the training of students in scheduled FY25 classes.

6. It has been determined by the undersigned that a brand name award under FAR 13.106-1(b) is the best interest of the government.

Jeffrey E. Redecker Glynco Operations Branch (GOB) Procurement Division (PRO) Mission and Readiness Support Directorate (MRSD) Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC)