Continuation of FFY 2006 PSN projects in Eastern Washington.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide commitment to reducing gun crime, links existing local programs together and provides them with necessary tools. PSN 1) takes a hard line against gun criminals, using every available means to create safer neighborhoods; 2) seeks to achieve heightened coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement; and 3) emphasizes tactical intelligence gathering, more aggressive prosecutions, and enhanced accountability through performance measures. The United States Attorney in each federal judicial district will lead the offensive. The fiscal agent, in coordination with the PSN Task Force, will allocate funds throughout the community.

The Washington State Department of Community Trade and Economic Development, serving as the fiscal agent for the Eastern District of Washington, will use the PSN funds to continue and enhance their successful PSN programs. The Eastern District will fund the following initiatives: a media campaign that will focus on reaching Spanish-speaking residents in order to increase the overall impact of the program; the Spokane Gang Enforcement Team will receive training and equipment for investigators and will partially fund a dedicated deputy prosecutor; and the Street Crimes Enforcement Unit will receive overtime funding for patrols in the City of Toppenish, which has experienced an increase in gang activity and violence.

NCA/NCF