Shelby County 2008 Justice Assistance Grant

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 Shelby County and the city of Memphis will share the $420,642 Fiscal Year 2008 Local JAG award equally. The fiscal agent, Shelby County, will utilize $210,321 to purchase surveillance equipment, weapons, undercover audio and video devices, and bulletproof vests; to provide cash awards for Crime Stoppers; and to fund training and education sessions for officers and employees designed to reduce crime and enhance community safety. The city of Memphis will use their $210,321 to provide funding for Mental Health Correction Units and to support the Shelby County District Attorney General's Office, the Shelby County Community Services Office, the Shelby County Drug Court, and the Shelby County Juvenile Court.

NCA/NCF