Federal Dough For Law Enforcement

From Congressman Jim Himes:

Himes, Mayors Announce Grants for Stamford, Norwalk, Bridgeport Police. Funding will be used for training, equipment, and expanded patrolling

WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) and the mayors of Bridgeport, Stamford, and Norwalk announced three law enforcement grants today totaling $291,001. Stamford received $46,441 for police officer training and computer equipment purchases. Norwalk received $50,262 for personnel costs associated with the high visibility and selective enforcement patrol project, which will increase police presence in “hot spots” where there have been gang-related incidents. Bridgeport received $194,298 to make upgrades to its police firing range.

“These funds will help ensure that the Stamford, Norwalk, and Bridgeport police departments have the resources they need to combat gang violence, compensate officers who put their lives on the line, and keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Himes. “As Congress continues to debate federal spending, we must remember that public safety is our top priority, and grants like these help keep residents safe.”

“This grant will bolster the Norwalk Police in their ongoing work to escalate a visible law enforcement presence in areas of know gang hostility,” said Norwalk Mayor Richard Moccia. “On behalf of all Norwalk citizens I wish to express thanks to the Department of Justice and especially to Congressman Himes for his effort to secure this funding that will help make Norwalk neighborhoods safer.”

“Delivering and maintaining the highest level of public safety for the residents of Bridgeport is my highest priority as Mayor. Thanks to Congressman Himes for his efforts in bringing these funds to Bridgeport which will help provide improved training conditions for our officers,” said Mayor Bill Finch.

“The JAG grant recently awarded to the City of Stamford will be utilized by the Stamford Police Department to provide state of the art technology which will be used in a multitude of venues to include special events, crime scene investigation and special operations,” said Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia.

The funding was awarded through the Department of Justice’s Justice Assistance Grant program, which allows state and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, and information systems.