Purchasing a Police Cruiser.

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 East Lansing will use JAG funding to enhance the system of justice by purchasing a police cruiser. Officers use cruisers to patrol the city, respond to emergency calls, and enforce traffic laws. Because of the downturn in the economy, the city has not been able to set aside replacement funds for police cruisers for the last two years, and it is unlikely that funds will be available in the next fiscal year. The purchase of a new police cruiser will enhance the city's law enforcement capabilities by providing officers with updated and necessary equipment for patrol operations.

NCA/NCF