Buffalo Trace/Gateway Narcotics Task Force Enhancement Project

The Congressionally Selected Awards Program, authorized by the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009 (Pub. L. 111-8), helps improve the functioning of the criminal justice system, prevent or combat juvenile delinquency, and/or assist victims of crime (other than compensation). Funds should be used for the projects selected by Congress, in the amounts specified in the joint explanatory statement incorporated by reference into Pub. L. 111-8, and generally consistent with one or more of the following statutory purposes: improving the functioning of the criminal justice system, preventing or combating juvenile delinquency, or assisting victims of crime (other than compensation). Each of these purposes is framed using language drawn, respectively, from the former Byrne discretionary statute, the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 09 Congressional Budget and by the joint explanatory statement that is incorporated by reference into the FY09 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

The Buffalo Trace/Gateway Narcotics Task Force (Task Force) will support local law enforcement agencies to rid communities of illegal drug use through undercover narcotics investigations, coordination of treatment for substance abusers, provision of support to families and friends of substance abusers, and education of the public about the dangers of using drugs. The Task Force will utilize their Congressionally Selected Award by developing and empowering community coalitions to neither accept or tolerate the drug culture. They will also continue to significantly reduce illegal drug availability in the region through aggressive enforcement and quality investigations. The Task Force will continue to upgrade intelligence gathering with the use of specialized equipment and by utilizing services provided by K.S.P. and ROCIC to combat the increase in the level of sophisticated dealers and to work with local court systems in obtaining stiff penalties with consistent sentencing. The Task Force will also encourage substance abuse treatment opportunities for addicts, inmates, and families. They will also work with local law enforcement agencies to educate communities on the dangers and possible death of drug abusers and empower youth to be anti-drug leaders in their communities.

NCA/CF