Fiscal Year 2013 JAG 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 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 city of Asheville and Buncombe County have been identified as disparate and have agreed to share the funds allocated to them through the FY 2013 JAG Program. The Asheville Police Department will use funds to increase the number of in-car video camera systems in patrol cars, which will provide secure video evidence of officer interactions during patrols, increase evidentiary video that will aid in court prosecutions of criminal cases as well as internal investigations, and increase public confidence. Buncombe County will use their share of the funds to increase the number of handheld night vision units deputies are trained with and have access to in the field. Their project will enhance officer safety by allowing officers to operate in reduced lighting conditions and improve on-the-job behavior through the use of advanced technology. NCA/NCF