JEFFERSON CITY -- Over $760,000 has been awarded to local law enforcement agencies through the federal Local Law Enforcement Block Grant JAG program.
"These funding opportunities boost local law enforcement agencies with more resources and equipment to help keep their communities safe," Gov. Matt Blunt said.
The Local Law Enforcement Block Grants were awarded to 123 local law enforcement agencies for the purpose of reducing crime and improving public safety. Missouri was able to secure $761,917.47 this year. Funds will be used to purchase officer safety equipment such as radios, ballistic vests and items to assist the safe and secure transport of prisoners.
The following local agencies were awarded assistance through the LLEBG/JAG program:
City of Bernie, $7,579.80; City of Dexter, $8,946; Mississippi County, $8,099.92;City of Parma, $1,386; City of Portageville, $5,330.53 and Stoddard, County, $7,798.05.
The program is made available through the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) and is administered through the Missouri Department of Public Safety. Short-term contracts are awarded in amounts up to $10,000 for purchase of equipment directly related to basic law enforcement functions and officer safety. Agencies are required to provide a 10 percent cash match of their total project cost.