Police foundations across the country privately raise money to buy weapons, equipment, and surveillance tech for police departments, bypassing public budgets and oversight. The Louisville Metro Police Foundation's (LMPF) 990 states that its mission is to provide "funds for essential equipment and programs not included in the city budget."
While the LMPF does not disclose all of its donors beyond a handful of noted sponsors, it has a large corporate board of directors and group of advisors to help it raise money for the police.