For Release: Thursday, August 25, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

GRANITE CITY RECEIVES U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE GRANT

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the City of Granite City has received a $12,548 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 and is named for New York Police Officer, Edward Byrne, who was killed in the line-of-duty by drug dealers.

Granite City will use the grant funds to purchase radios and radio equipment upgrades to service newly annexed areas of the community and have compatible communication with the Madison County Sheriff's department.

"These are necessary resources for keeping our communities safe and should remain a priority for the federal budget," said Costello, a former law enforcement official.  "The funds will help Granite City to ensure a safe and compatible means of communication for their law enforcement personnel."

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