FY 2010 Justice Assistance Grant Program

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) allows states and units of local government, 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 city of Norwalk will use the JAG funds to implement a police motorcycle unit. The unit will be responsible for motor vehicle violation enforcement as well as responding to traffic related incidents. The unit will be staffed by one supervisor and two officers that will provide 288 additional hours of selective enforcement patrols targeting enforcement in problem areas throughout Norwalk. Grant funds will pay for two police motorcycles outfitted with emergency equipment, radar units, and wireless communication as well as uniforms and equipment for officers assigned to the unit. Grant funds will also be use to pay for overtime costs associated with these extra patrols. The goals of this project are to increasing motor vehicle violation enforcement, creating an environment that motivates voluntary compliance with motor vehicle laws. The increased motor vehicle enforcement should also reduce traffic accidents and associated property damage, creating a safer environment for motorists and pedestrians.

NCA/NCF