ABOUT
We are THE solution to the long-term evidence and property storage problem many law enforcement agencies are experiencing today.
The problem? Property rooms are bulging at the seams due to a lack of space. They also lack the proper facilities to maintain the volume of evidence requiring temperature-controlled environments.
Fortress Plus Solutions specializes in safe and secure storage, handling, and transportation of evidence and property for law enforcement agencies. We ensure all services adhere to strict chain-of-custody protocols. Our facility is unmarked, monitored 24/7 for unauthorized entry, and climate controlled.
Our Mission
Fortress Plus Solutions provides law enforcement agencies with practical and cost-effective solutions for long-term evidence and property storage needs. We uphold the integrity of our law enforcement partners through honest business practices and strict adherence to the standards and laws governing evidentiary processes.
Our Facility
Located in the greater Chicago area, our unmarked facility is 100% secure, providing restricted access to only authorized personnel. It is monitored 24/7/365 for fire, unauthorized entry, and interior climate changes. The facility, designed with climate-controlled zones, offers customizable storage areas for all types of evidence and property. Whether your items are large, bulky, or oddly shaped, our facility can store them safely and securely for as long as you need.
Our Team
Mike Gillespie
Chief Executive Officer
Mike has a diverse entrepreneurial portfolio, including an auto dealership, an internet company, and various real estate properties. In addition to his business ventures, Mike is an active leader in his community and a dedicated philanthropist. He has served on several industry and nonprofit boards, including the American Cancer Society and Shriners Hospitals for Children. Mikes passion for innovation and service has earned him recognition across multiple industries, making him a sought-after advisor and leader.
Matt Gainer
Chief Revenue Director
Matt brings over 25 years of diverse law enforcement experience, having served with the Illinois State Police, the Major Crimes Task Force, and the Chicago Heights Police Department. During his career, he held the position of President of the Illinois Homicide Investigators Association, an organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement officers essential for solving homicide cases and conducting thorough criminal investigations. In addition to his leadership, Matt is a Certified Property and Evidence Specialist. Matt’s extensive experience demonstrates his commitment to advancing excellence in law enforcement operations and evidence management.
Joe Altman
Evidence Property Custodian
Joe proudly served in the United States Marine Corps for 20 years, demonstrating dedication, leadership, and a commitment to service. Following his military career, Joe transitioned into evidence management, where he has accrued over seven years of specialized experience. As a Certified Property and Evidence Specialist, Joe applies his expertise to ensure the secure handling, organization, and preservation of evidence. His combination of military discipline and professional certification makes him a highly respected figure in evidence management, providing reliable and efficient solutions to law enforcement agencies.
Carlos Gantes
Warehouse Operations
Carlos oversees the day-to-day external operations at Fortress Plus Solutions, ensuring the efficient management of logistics. His role is pivotal in maintaining the company’s high standards of service delivery and operational excellence.
Hailey Rae
Marketing Director
Hailey is a skilled professional who graduated from the University of Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, specializing in Management and Marketing. She is also a Certified Property and Evidence Specialist. This certification highlights her expertise in evidence management including best practices for handling, organizing, and securing property and evidence. Her educational background and professional certification demonstrate her commitment to excellence and precision.
John Tufo
Consultant
John has over 25 years of experience in sales and business management. His expertise lies in building strong client relationships, driving sales growth, and delivering exceptional project outcomes. Throughout his career, John has demonstrated an exceptional ability to identify opportunity, strategize effectively, and lead teams to success. His commitment to excellence and a results-driven approach makes him a valuable asset in any endeavor.
Tim Gainer
Consultant
Tim has over 25 years of experience in law enforcement with the Illinois State Police. He previously served as a Director of the Major Crimes Task Force, an organization dedicated to providing comprehensive investigative support to law enforcement agencies in Cook and Will Counties. In addition to his leadership role with the task force, Tim is a board member of the Illinois Homicide Investigators Association, an organization supporting law enforcement officers who are essential to solving homicide cases and other criminal investigations. Tim is also a Certified Property and Evidence Specialist. His extensive experience and dedication show his commitment to excellence in law enforcement and investigative services.
FAQS
What Do You Store?
We store evidence, records and documents, and other items requiring high-security storage.
Do You Store Short-Term Evidence?
Yes. Fortress Plus can store and provide secure transportation of your short-term evidence.
Do You Store Vehicles?
Yes
Is There Anything You Will Not Store?
Fortress Plus does not store narcotics or currency.
How Do I Prepare My Evidence To Transfer to the Fortress Plus Solutions Warehouse?
One of our dedicated professionals will contact you and provide a thorough checklist of requirements to ensure a seamless transfer of evidence.
How Does Fortress Plus Ensure a Strict Chain of Custody for my Evidence?
Once our Evidence Custodian verifies your evidence, it is sealed and then loaded and locked on our truck and transported to our high-security facility. Upon arrival at our warehouse, each piece of evidence is assigned a unique ID and warehouse location number. We can provide photographic verification upon request.
How Can I Conduct Evidence Reviews and Inspections When My Property Is In Your Warehouse?
Upon request, Evidence may be inspected, and audited in the privacy of our Evidence Viewing Room.
Do You Transport Evidence?
Yes, upon request, Fortress Plus provides secured transportation of your evidence to your agency, laboratories, courts, etc.
What Type of Evidence Management System Do You Use To Track Agencies' Property In Your Possession?
Fortress Plus uses Porter Lee Corp’s BEAST barcoded Evidence Management System to track and maintain proper Chain of Custody of all agencies’ property
What Type of Security Is In Place at Fortress Plus?
Our unmarked, high-security facility has a state-of-the-art security system that is monitored on-site 24/7/365 by trained personnel.
How Is My Evidence Protected While In Storage?
Items are shrink-wrapped and stored in our climate-controlled warehouse. Our facility is safeguarded by a fire suppression system.
Are You Licensed to Store Evidence.
Yes, FPS maintains all licenses for the storage of evidence as required by the state of Illinois.
What Is the Cost of Storing My Property With You?
Evidence Condos range from $299 to $499 per month based on a variety of factors. Your Fortress Plus representative can provide a custom quote upon your request.
What Other Services Do You Offer Besides Storage?
We provide evidence room audits, mobile surveillance trailers, cold case and major case reviews, expert testimony, and polygraph services,
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