Local JAG

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).

St. Lucie County was selected as the fiscal agent and the county and city of Fort Pierce agreed to an equal shares of the 2008 JAG award. Both jurisdictions will use funding for law enforcement purposes. The St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office will purchase needed equipment for the SWAT team. The ballistic shields used by the team are ready to expire and will be replaced. Other purchases will include firearms and holsters. The Fort Pierce Police Department plans to upgrade its inventory of firearms so that officers will be carrying the type used by surrounding law enforcement agencies.

NCA/NCF