In-Vehicle Video and Audio Recording Improvement Project

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 town of Amherst will use FY 2010 JAG funds to purchase in-car digital video and audio recorders for its police department's patrol vehicles. The new equipment, which will have the ability to wirelessly download information to the department's server, will enhance the safety of officers and the community; increase offender accountability through documentation of incidents; and create a more secure chain of custody for digital evidence collected.

NCA/NCF