GBI takes control of $954,578 surveillance SUV purchased by Georgia DFCS.

A surveillance-equipped SUV purchased by Georgia’s Department of Family and children services has been transferred to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, leaving questions about why the social services agency bought the vehicle and who authorized its reassignment.

GBI spokeswoman Sara Lue confirmed the agency received the Chevrolet Traverse on Oct. 20 and would pay for it. The reported purchase and installation cost totaled $954,578.

The SUV contains a cell-site simulator, equipment that mimics a cellular tower to help locate phones.

Human Services officials said the purchase was intended for its Special Victims Unit, which helps locate missing foster children and children exploited through sex trafficking. Federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families funds were used for the purchase.

The spending drew scrutiny from lawmakers over funding priorities and privacy protections.

Lue said GBI obtains search warrants or court orders before deploying cell-site simulators.

State officials have not publicly explained who directed the transfer or why. Accounts also differed about whether Human Services had previously taken delivery.

The governor’s office said GBI would operate the vehicle. Details about reimbursement and its future deployment were not provided.

Yolonda Harris / News Now Georgia