WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Bill Delahunt today announced that the towns of Yarmouth and Chatham have been awarded a total of $144,955 in federal assistance for local community policing efforts.

“Bringing law enforcement personnel and resources into our schools can reduce the levels of substance abuse and crime in our communities, while fostering increased respect for police among students,” Delahunt said.

The US Justice Department has awarded a $125,000 grant to the Yarmouth Police Department and $19,955 to the Chatham Police Department.  Grants under the Secure Our Schools Program provide up to 50 percent of the total cost for municipalities to install metal detectors, locks, lighting and other equipment designed to deter crime. They may also be used to pay half of the costs of security assessments, training or other expenses that will provide a security improvement.

The national COPS-in-Schools program seeks to enhance school safety by applying concepts of community policing to primary and secondary schools. Over the past several years, the COPS program has also incorporated training in terrorism prevention, emergency response, and the critical role of schools in community preparedness and disaster response.

“The key to the success of the COPS Program in our schools is the collaborative work of law enforcement, school districts and other community leaders.” said Delahunt. The Congressman commended the police and school officials in Yarmouth and Chatham for their commitment to a concerted, cooperative effort to enhance youth safety.

As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, Mr. Delahunt has been an ardent supporter and cosponsor of legislation reauthorizing and providing funding for the national COPS program, and works closely with interested local police departments.

 

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