Exploring the Intersection of Law Enforcement Technology Solutions and Leadership Development to Reduce Violent Crime

Under the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) FY24 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, the Richmond Police Department (RPD), Richmond, Virginia is seeking $95,517.00 to implement a multi-layered approach to violent crime reduction in the City of Richmond. The purpose of this project is to leverage modern technological advancements, continue creating sustainable partnerships by increasing engagement with local organizations, and facilitate the growth of the Department's staff with leadership and development training to further enhance RPD’s capacity to combat violent crime. Primary activities include partnering with the Richmond Adult Drug Treatment Court to provide overtime and program surveillance to support the court and its participants, investing in leadership training and development for the Department's staff (both civilian and sworn), replacing worn and expired body armor for the FMT and Narcotics units, and procuring a mobile security tower that can be used for city events, marathons, and festivals. Continuing to explore these intersections supports RPD in helping make Richmond a safer city through community policing and engagement, and upholds the Department’s core values of employee health, wellness, and morale; rebuilding trust and legitimacy; public safety through community engagement; innovation through technology; and community policing through strategic planning and evidence-based research.