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).

Panola County, through the sheriff's department, will utilize its Fiscal Year 2009 JAG funds to enhance deputies' safety. Panola County Sheriff's Department will purchase tasers to provide deputies with a non-lethal option. The tasers will be equipped with cameras to record any use of the weapons for evidence purposes or viewing at a later date.

NCA/NCF