Award Information
Description of original award (Fiscal Year 2009, $185,000)
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.
The City of Newburgh will use its FY 2009 Congressionally Selected Award to establish an advanced community policing initiative and a promotional campaign to educate the community about its efforts to combat crime. A recent study indicated the city reported the highest per capita violent crime rate within the state, which was more than twice that of New York City. In addition, the Federal Bureau of Investigation recently identified the city as a gang hot-spot. Through the grant, funds will support the salary and fringe benefits of two officers tasked with community policing. The officers will work towards establishing and solidifying existing neighborhood groups, as well as participate in community events in order to engage the public and conduct targeted patrols of problematic locations to reduce crime. Crime prevention and safety awareness materials for the public will also be funded.
NCA/NCF