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 county of Lee will use its Fiscal Year 2009 JAG award in the amount of $10,213 to fund a 'Technology and Safety Equipment Program.' The Lee County Sheriff's Department plans to upgrade their crime lab through improved technology that will assist in the areas of investigations and training. This grant will allow for the purchase of crime scene computer software, four new digital cameras with zoom lenses, and a canoacrylate fuming chamber laboratory for fingerprint gathering at crime scenes. In addition, four master expert latent print kits will replace older kits currently in use. A serial number restoration kit will be purchased, as well as five narcotics analysis reagent test kits (drugs and narcotics). The purchase of a laptop computer and a projector will allow officers to show the crime scene data in court. All of the above items will be used to improve the Investigative Department from the crime scene to the court room.

NCA/NCF