Security-Related Operational Equipment Upgrades Project

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 the city of Hobbs and the county of Lea will utilize their Fiscal Year 2008 JAG award in the amount of $16,113 for law enforcement equipment. Both jurisdictions have agreed that the Lea County Sheriff's Department will receive 100 percent of the 2008 JAG funding for the purchase of 38 electronic overhead gun racks and 14Glock duty holsters. The rifle and shotgun locks will enable deputies to secure their long-arms inside the cabs of their patrol pickups rather than having to secure them in a tool-box located in the bed of the vehicle. This process increases the security of the weapon and makes deployment safer. The Level II Glock security holsters will enable deputies to better secure their sidearm both when dealing with a situation in which they must employ open hand techniques, or to safely transition to a less-lethal weapon such as pepper spray.

NCA/NCF