Officer Safety Training and Equipment Enhancement 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).

Darlington County will utilize the FY 2011 JAG award to improve law enforcement efficiency within the county. Funds will allow the Darlington County Sheriff's Office to purchase an Automatic Turning 12 Target Firing Range System and an All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) for the Special Enforcement Unit. The addition of a firing range at the sheriff's office will allow deputies to meet the standards of the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and obtain the required Deputy Fire Arms Certifications. Acquisition of this equipment enables more frequent training of officers, which will enhance officer and public safety. The requested ATV will be used to transport deputies, K-9 dogs, and equipment in rough terrain areas during high risk special operations including K-9 tracking of narcotics and criminal suspects, and missing person searches.

NCA/NCF