Meridian Police Department Justice Assistance Grant

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 funds will be used for a crisis response phone system with hand-held cell phone recorder kit. This will facilitate communication with barricaded subjects. The Meridian Police Department also intends to equip the newly formed Streets Impact Team with MCT computers. Because of the age of current pistols, 29 Generation 4 Glock pistols will be purchased. These pistols will allow for proper fit of weapons for officers with various hand sizes. Finally, they would like to order 87 duty belt upgrades which will reduce the risk of back injuries to officers.

NCA/NCF