Lake County JAG 08

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 disparate jurisdictions of Lake County and the Cities of Gary, East Chicago, and Hammond will utilize their Fiscal Year 2008 JAG award in the amount of $104,469 to purchase law enforcement equipment. All funding will be used to enhance technological capabilities. Lake County will serve as the fiscal agent for the JAG award. The Lake County Sheriff's office will use funds to strengthen the county's data and record management systems in order to create wireless departmental interoperability. The Gary Police Department will purchase surveillance equipment to enhance enforcement effectiveness and lower the risk of officer exposure. The East Chicago Police Department will use its allocation to expand the SWAT unit's equipment. The Hammond Police Department will purchase portable radio packages to ensure effective officer communication.

NCA/NCF