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).

Otero County will apply fiscal year 2009 JAG funding towards law enforcement equipment. Specifically, the county sheriff's department will purchase audio/video recording systems, prisoner transport cages, dual weapons systems, a light bar, and siren/light boxes and speakers. The grant funded purchases will help improve officer safety, and technology in the area of investigations and interviews which will ultimately aid in successful prosecution.

NCA/NCF