Buffalo/Erie County Receive $260,772 to Fight and Prosecute Crimes

Funds Will Support Wide Range of Law Enforcement and Crime Prevention Programs

Washington, DC - Rep. Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, is proud to announce that the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Program has generously awarded $260,772 to Erie County and the City of Buffalo in order to assist them with meeting their unique law enforcement and crime prevention needs.

The City of Buffalo was awarded $204,772 which will be used to better equip and prepare numerous crime-fighting agencies within the city.  Funds will be used for two juvenile delinquency prevention programs as well as purchasing portable radios, bullet proof vests and upgraded computer technology.  Erie County also received $56,000 to assist the District Attorney in prosecuting gangs and juvenile violent crimes.

"I am so pleased that the dedicated law enforcement organizations of our region have received these critically important resources," Rep. Slaughter said. "These funds will allow local authorities to provide overtime pay, equipment, and program support to their officers, and will help them to continue improving and protecting the communities they serve."

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Program (JAG) provides funding to states, tribes, and local governments. Its grants are used to support the diverse needs of local law enforcement organizations, and to facilitate the work of officers, court systems, and corrections and drug treatment programs. JAG grants also serve to foster prevention and education programs that improve the communities and lives of local citizens and help reduce the likelihood that they will embrace criminal activities.