Community Policing Initiative

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 town of Southbridge will use JAG funds to support police officer overtime costs associated with targeted enforcement efforts. Through the grant, the Southbridge Police Department will increase foot and bicycle patrols in areas affected by theft and burglary of homes and businesses. Additional patrols will also involve increased police presence in parks and recreation areas and radar patrols in high traffic areas of the community.

NCA/NCF