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 Laurel will use their 2010 JAG funds to purchase a new state of the art McGruff costume that would be lighter, cooler, and benefit from the use of animatronics eyes and ears as well as a self-contained voice amplification system. A state of the art McGruff costume will be used at multiple festivals, parades, schools, and community events to promote a positive and approachable image.

The city will also purchase a "Daren the DARE Lion" mascot costume. The Laurel Police Department has constantly staffed and maintained a highly regarded DARE program for 20 years within the community, teaching thousands of young students about the dangers of drug use and the tools necessary to resist drug use. Daren the Lion would accentuate the current program by introducing a fun and positive role model to young impressionable school age children. Daren will provide a highly visible and approachable image at schools, festivals, and community events.

The city will purchase of a new police canine to be added to the existing canine unit. Currently, the unit is staffed with four canine teams; however, two of the teams are in the twilight of their service lives. It is imperative that the Laurel Police continue to provide the highest level of police service to their residents. This initiative will assist the Laurel Police with preparing for the inevitable retirement of half of the canine teams.

NCA/NCF