For Release: Monday, August 29, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

BELLEVILLE RECEIVES U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE GRANT

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the City of Belleville has received a $301,823 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 Belleville, along with Washington Park Village, will use the grant to purchase, install and maintain computers in police vehicles.  The computers allow officers direct access to drivers' license, registration and warrant information as well as allowing them to type their reports.  Washington Park Village will use part of the funds for jail repairs. 

"Better equipment lets our officers be more efficient and keeps them and our communities safer," said Costello, a former law enforcement official.  "Our first responders put their lives on the line everyday, and they need the resources and technology to operate at maximum effectiveness."

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