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 disparate jurisdictions consisting of Bell County and the cities of Temple and Killeen will use their Fiscal Year 2009 JAG award in the amount of $117,810 to support the needs of the local law enforcement agencies in the areas of training, overtime, equipment, and supplies. The Bell County Sheriff's Office will purchase handguns, holsters, duty belts, and related equipment using JAG grant funds. The Temple Police Department will use its funds to pay overtime for patrols that focus on traffic related issues. This is a city-wide effort and includes high-speed roadways and residential areas. The Killeen Police Department will use its funds to purchase additional tasers for uniformed personnel. Training will also be provided to ensure proper use. These funds will assist in the prevention and control of crime, and will also improve the criminal justice system.

NCA/NCF