2008 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG) Grant Program

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own local needs and conditions. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice for any one or more of the following purpose areas: 1) law enforcement programs; 2) prosecution and court programs; 3) prevention and education programs; 4) corrections and community corrections programs; 5) drug treatment programs; and 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs. 7) crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation).

The goals and objectives for the FY 2008 JAG Program are consistent with the District of Columbia's public safety and justice mission. The District will dedicate the FY 2008 JAG funds to four of the five JAG purpose areas: Prevention and education; drug treatment; law enforcement; and technology. To assist citizens with preventing and controlling crimes, for example, the funds will be used for community watch programs and graffiti removal. Funding will also be provided for programs which identify and meet the treatment needs of families with adult/youth drug and alcohol dependency. To reduce gang-related violence, the District will continue efforts to intervene through programs that use mediation, as well as programs that divert youth who are involved in or are at risk of involvement in gangs. Since the use of technology is essential to effective and efficient law enforcement and public safety, the District plans to continue to increase the technology capability across all criminal justice agencies for the purpose of information sharing, planning, evaluation, and technology improvement. These goals are undertaken in collaboration with, or in support of local government agencies, federal government agencies, the courts, and community-based organizations. This collaboration is supported by the D.C. Criminal Justice Coordinating Council.

NCA/NCF