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).

The city of West Columbia will use its Fiscal Year 2009 JAG award towards equipment upgrades for a law enforcement team to conduct successful water rescue. Specific purchases include a personal watercraft that is able to navigate all areas of a river, a rapid deployment craft that can safely navigated in rapids, and personal safety equipment for rescuers. Funds also will be utilized for training in swift water rescue techniques. These purchases will ensure a more effective and prepared response in the event of a rescue involving multiple victims or injuries.

NCA/NCF