WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) today announced that four communities in West Virginia will receive federal crime-fighting grants from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants Program (Byrne JAG). The grants totaling $204,183 will enable local law enforcement agencies to purchase needed resources and equipment.

“It is critical that we equip our law enforcement agencies with the tools necessary to protect our communities,” said Senator Capito. “Each day, law enforcement officers risk their lives to keep us safe, and these federal crime-fighting grants will ensure they have the support and resources needed to do their jobs effectively. This is an important investment in our communities and the courageous men and women who keep us safe.”

“Crime has a devastating impact on our families, our communities and our state, and these grants give our dedicated West Virginia law enforcement officers more tools to help reduce crime,” Senator Manchin said. “This funding will enable police officers and other law enforcement officials to better protect our residents and communities across West Virginia. Our first responders work every day to keep our communities safe, and we owe it to them to make sure they get the necessary resources to make that possible.”

The Byrne JAG Program allows states and units of local government to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their state’s specific needs. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support and information systems for criminal justice.

Individual grants are listed below:

$134,323 City of Charleston – Funds will be used to purchase radios, evidence collection equipment and supplies for law enforcement officers.

$22,237 City of Bluefield – Funds will be used to purchase radar units for law enforcement.

$16,260 Monongalia County – Funds will be used for law enforcement to purchase firearms and holsters, as well as an evidence drying locker.

$31,363 Putman County Commission – Funds will be used to purchase a law enforcement patrol vehicle. 

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