FFY24 Maryland's Byrne JAG Project

The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy (GOCPP) proposes a comprehensive, multi-year, strategic initiative under the FFY2024 Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. The purpose of this initiative is to enhance public safety and address pressing criminal justice challenges in Maryland by focusing on key areas such as mental health crisis intervention, diversion and reentry programs, and violent crime reduction. These efforts will be guided by a commitment to data-driven strategies and evidence-based practices that align with JAG's purpose areas of law enforcement, mental health programming, and recidivism reduction.

Key activities will include expanding access to behavioral health services through the development of Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) to reduce unnecessary justice system involvement for individuals in crisis. The initiative will also prioritize reentry services that implement evidence-based and emerging strategies to reduce recidivism, such as improved access to housing, employment, and mental health support for returning citizens. Additionally, GOCPP will support data-driven, community-based approaches to addressing gun violence and community-level crime by tackling the root causes of violence, such as poverty, systemic inequities, and educational disparities.

The target beneficiaries of this initiative include Maryland’s diverse population of over six million residents, with a particular focus on urban areas such as Baltimore and Montgomery County, as well as underserved rural communities. GOCPP will prioritize partnerships with local law enforcement agencies, non-profit organizations, and community-based groups that align with federal purpose areas and Maryland’s state-level criminal justice priorities.

Expected outcomes include measurable reductions in violent crime rates, enhanced mental health crisis intervention responses, and successful reintegration of justice-involved individuals. These outcomes will be achieved through evidence-based practices and strong collaboration with local stakeholders, whose input has been gathered through surveys and consultations to ensure the initiative addresses community-specific needs.

Ultimately, this project aims to foster a more equitable and effective criminal justice system in Maryland, promoting long-term public safety and community well-being.