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).

St. Joseph County and the cities of Mishawaka and South Bend will apply fiscal year 2009 JAG funding towards separate initiatives aimed at enhancing law enforcement services and officer safety. Through the grant, the city of South Bend will purchase in-car video systems for its police department's patrol vehicles. The city of Mishawaka, through the police department, will purchase laptop computers to be housed in its patrol vehicles. The computers will enable officers to access criminal justice databases while in the field, thereby increasing visibility and deterring crime. The county will use remaining funds to purchase Tasers and associated accessories for the county police department. The new equipment will provide officers a less-than-lethal option in combative situations, ensuring the safety of the officer and the suspect. For administrative purposes, the city of South Bend will serve as the fiscal agent for this award.

NCA/NCF