For Release: Thursday, May 25, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

ALTON RECEIVES U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE GRANT

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the City of Alton has received a $17,886 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance grant through the U.S. Department of Justice.  The Byrne Justice Assistance grant program allows local governments to support activities to prevent and control crime based on local needs and conditions.

The City of Alton will use the funds to purchase tactical team equipment.  Tactical Response Team members respond to high-risk search warrants, barricaded subjects, hostage rescue requests and weapons of mass destruction incidents on a regional basis. 

"Our first responders need the proper equipment to do their jobs and protect our communities," said Costello, a former law enforcement official.  "I will continue to work to make this funding a priority in the federal budget."

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