Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2009, $100,000)
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.
Bristol Borough is constantly striving to reduce criminal activity and improve upon a sense of safety and security in the community. In addition to addressing criminal activity that originates in Bristol Borough, the Police Department must also tackle the problem of criminal activity that filters in from neighboring metropolitan cities such as Philadelphia and Trenton. Gang activity is a prime example. While Bristol Borough has yet to become an active location of gang violence, adjacent communities have seen sharp increases of gang-related criminal behavior. Bristol Borough Police Department has made arrests of gang members and has learned of active recruiting within the Borough.
The Bristol Borough Police Department will use their 2009 Congressionally Selected Awards funds to address this issue by purchasing a records management system (RMS) capable of being installed in police vehicles; purchasing mobile broadband access cards for mobile computers to allow information sharing between police departments in five surrounding counties; funding the DARE Program that provides children with lessons that help develop sound decision making skills regarding bullying, drugs, alcohol, tobacco and other delinquent and adult criminal activity; and funding the proactive Squad 5 detail that addresses criminal activity issues.
NCA/NCF