Law Enforcement Safety Enhancement

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).

Sumter County will utilize its FY 2008 JAG funds to purchase protective ballistic vests and tasers for Sumter County Sheriff's Office deputies. Tasers have given the deputies an opportunity that no other tool in their possession could offer: the chance to incapacitate a subject without lasting harm while avoiding lethal force. With JAG funds, Sumter County will be able to improve the safety of their officers while serving its citizens.

NCA/NCF