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 North Adams will use its Fiscal Year 2009 JAG award to support Operation Blue Light. The North Adams Police Department will dedicate 412 hours of man-power to directed speed patrols on major roadways as well as in neighborhoods. These patrols use zero tolerance in an effort to prevent all types of motor vehicle violations as well as an interdiction technique in troubled neighborhoods. Operation Blue Light has proven to be very successful, as traffic accidents and injuries are down and intervention in the neighborhoods has led to an increase in the quality of life for the residents.

NCA/NCF