Fiscal Year 2008 Justice Assistance Grant Program

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 city and county of Schenectady will utilize their Fiscal Year 2008 JAG award in the amount of $27,180 to support the operations of the Community Accountability Board initiative. The joint project between the city and county provides an alternative sentencing option for offenders charged in Schenectady City Court with non-violent quality of life offenses that include petty larceny, vandalism, unlawful possession of controlled substances, under-age drinking, and loitering. Offenders are given the opportunity to perform specific activities that aim to repair the harm done to victims and the community through community service, financial restitution, and letters of apology. Upon completion of the program, cases are returned to court for dismissal. For purposes of grant administration, the county, through the District Attorney's Office, has been designated as the fiscal agent, responsible for program management and oversight.

NCA/NCF