Kildee Announces $14,115 Federal Grant for

WASHINGTON - Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) announced today that Bay County and Bay City have been awarded $14,115 in federal grants to support local law enforcement initiatives.  The Office of Justice Programs, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, awarded the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant to Bay County area law enforcement authorities for crime prevention aimed at assisting law enforcement officers in the areas of highest need.

“The Byrne Grant Program has been an extremely effective tool to help state and local agencies control violent and drug-related crime, improve operations, and build coordination and cooperation between sectors of the criminal justice system in areas where they are most needed,” said Kildee.  “These funds will be instrumental in providing additional law enforcement personnel to Bay County.”

The Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Program allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a local range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own local needs and conditions.  All funds awarded must be used for law enforcement purposes.  Bay County will serve as the fiscal agent for this grant program, and they will split an equal share of the JAG grant with Bay City.

Bay County will purchase a digital camera system for the courts and jail to enhance security for court personnel, deputies and the general public.  Bay City will use funds for updated rifles for patrol officers.