2010 JAG Technology 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).

Junction City and Geary County, as disparate jurisdictions, will share the JAG award. Junction City, serving as the fiscal agent for this grant, will use their share of the grant funds to purchase new computer equipment and upgrade existing computer equipment for the city police department. The goal of the police department is to streamline the availability of information to the officer. The department recently installed a new records management system and jail booking system. This system is shared by the police department, the Geary County Sheriff's Office, and the Grandview Plaza Police Department. The enhanced database features and the ability to store media such as mug shot photos, tattoo photos, and video has pushed the limits of some of the department's older equipment. Computer technology is a valuable tool in fighting crime. The department plans to enhance its current computer technology in an effort to more efficiently identify and target problems within their jurisdiction. Geary County, through the sheriff's office, will use their share of grant funds to purchase laptop computers to be installed in their primary patrol vehicles. The county currently has seven lap tops installed in patrol vehicles. The goal of this purchase is to increase the time the deputies spend on the road. Time spent in the office picking up or completing required paperwork and reports should be reduced. The use of JAG funds to upgrade computer equipment and to purchase lap top computers is consistent with the mission of both the Junction City Police Department and the Geary County Sheriff's Office.

NCA/NCF