Technology Upgrades and Police Bicycle Program Improvements

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; 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs; and 7) crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation).

The City of Bethlehem will use funds for law enforcement purposes. The police department plans to upgrade its technological capability. A new records management system has been recently implemented that requires officers to complete all reports using a computer. There are no more handwritten reports, so it is vital that the department computers and related electronic devices function efficiently and effectively. The department will also use the funds to improve the police bicycle program. Recently, the separate community policing unit and patrol division were combined into a single community patrol entity, which enabled the department to practice the community policing philosophy throughout the agency. Previously, only bicycle officers in that unit had bikes that were equipped. Under the new organizational structure, the unit has expanded in order to cultivate positive relationships between additional officers and the citizens they serve. The funds will be used for bicycles, parts, maintenance, uniforms, and training.

NCA/NCF