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 disparate jurisdictions (Grand Rapids City and Kent County) will use the JAG funds to increase neighborhood safety and improve the functionality of data analysis systems. Specifically, the Kent County Sheriff's Department will upgrade its Record Management System (RMS) to support internal and external interfaces and allow for enhanced data analysis. It is anticipated the upgrade will result in increased cost savings for the RMS. The City of Grand Rapids Community Development Department will administer the grant and provide sub-contracts to non-profit corporations that engage in crime prevention activities such as organizing block clubs and neighborhood watch, preparing and distributing crime alert materials, identifying and resolving public safety issues, and conducting home security surveys.

NCA/NCF