2014 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) 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 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 Vermont Department of Public Safety will use 2015 JAG funds to support the Vermont Drug Task Force (VTDTF). The VTDTF is a statewide drug task force comprised of a specialized law enforcement unit of state and local law enforcement officers. Through the grant, the VTDTF will continue ongoing investigations into the transportation, sale, possession, and abuse of illegal and prescription drugs. Activities will center on identifying and apprehending criminals dealing with illegal drugs and their sources through the use of confidential informants and undercover officers conducting controlled drug purchases. These efforts will ultimately lead to the identification of additional individuals involved in criminal activity, as well as the identification of drug sources of supply.

NCA/CF