The Positive S.T.E.P.S. Reentry Program is a multi-facted jail reentry program that was implemented in 2007 by the City of Petersburg, Virginia Sheriff's Office.

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 program 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 grantee will utilize the grant award to support re-entry efforts. Funds will be used to purchase dog equipment, supplies, maintenance, and training for three years. As part of the re-entry program, offenders are paired with dogs for vocational and rehabilitative education and the program is anticipated to reduce recidivism. NCA/NCF