FY 2009 Justice Assistance Grant Program

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) allows states and units of local governments, including tribes, to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own state and 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, including 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 and enforcement programs; 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs; and 7) crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation).

Kershaw County, through the Kershaw County Sheriff's Office, will use their Fiscal Year 2009 JAG award to purchase weapons and ammunition. Specifically, the sheriff's office will purchase 22 Bushmaster A2 Patrolman's Carbine with a fixed-carry handle as well as purchase 1 case of ammunition to enhance homeland security. Being able to equip their deputies with a weapons system that is a shoulder-fired weapon will allow for a more accurate shot as well as increasing the maximum effective range from 50 yards to 300 yards. Each officer issued this weapons system will be trained and certified by sheriff's office staff of all state and federal laws pertaining to use of force safety with the weapons system.

NCA/NCF