WASHINGTON, D. C. — U.S. Senator Richard C. Shelby (R-Ala) announced today that U.S. Department of Justice will be releasing $26,409 to Escambia County for The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG).

JAG allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on the needs of the communities. These funds can be used for technical assistance, training, equipment and information systems for criminal justice for any one or more of the following purpose areas:

· Law Enforcement Programs

· Prosecution and Court Programs

· Prevention and Education Programs

· Corrections and Community Corrections Programs

· Drug Treatment Programs

· Planning, Evaluation and Technology Improvements Programs

Escambia County will be purchasing a radio repeater for the Escambia County Sheriff’s Department to improve radio reception and transmission. The City of Atmore and the City of Brewton will each use these funds to purchase a server and other office equipment to improve the storage and maintenance of arrest records, incident records and accident reports.

Senator Shelby said, “I am pleased to announce over $26,000 for law enforcement throughout Escambia County. These funds will help improve communication among law enforcement officers and equip the various police departments with the most up to date technology, ensuring the safety and protection of our officers and our citizens.”

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