Anti-Public Corruption Hotline Program

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 Metropolitan Crime Commission, Inc. (MCC) will use the FY 2009 Congressionally Selected Award to sustain their Anti-Public Corruption Hotline Program, which serves to assist in the elimination of public corruption and reduction of white collar crime. The program is designed to augment the capabilities of law enforcement, administrative review panels, and ethics governing authorities in developing information about governmental corruption, administrative wrongdoing and unethical behavior throughout the State of Louisiana, with an emphasis in the New Orleans metro area. The project also provides a means by which public officials can provide information regarding private citizens engaging in criminal activity with public officials or employees, or those participating in acts of public corruption. Upon receipt of information, MCC staff evaluates tips, interviews informants, conducts investigations, and refers cases to the appropriate law enforcement agency, if applicable. The grantee will educate and inform the public via speaking engagements, media appearances and public service announcements about the hotline and commitment of the MCC. Grant funds will be used for personnel costs, supplies, and other costs necessary for the completion of the project.

NCA/NCF