Patrol Vehicle and Tactical Equipment

The City of Erie Police Department will use BJA funds for priority needs to improve the functioning of the criminal justice system. The primary purpose is to secure essential equipment for frontline patrols and the Erie Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team. In Erie, Pennsylvania the number of calls and incidents have increased in recent years, and in response, the City has hired 19 officers. Funds will be used to purchase one (1) frontline patrol vehicle, which will help with the issue that the majority of the Department’s fleet is outdated and the vehicles are in demand. The SWAT Team will purchase helmets, night vision attachments and illuminators, and ballistic vests to replace vests that are set to expire. This gear is essential to protect SWAT Team officers and fulfill their mission: to handle high-risk operations in a manner that reduces the chance of violence, injury or death.