For Release: Thursday, September 8, 2005
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

BETHALTO RECEIVES COPS GRANT

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the Bethalto Police Department has received a $47,876 grant through the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Secure our Schools program of the U.S. Department of Justice. 

The Secure Our Schools program will provide up to 50 percent of the total cost for municipalities to install metal detectors, locks, lighting, and other equipment to help deter crime.  The grants can also be used to pay half of the cost of security assessments, security training, and other measures that will provide a significant improvement in security. 

"As a strong supporter of the federal community policing program, I am pleased that these funds were allocated to Bethalto," Costello said.  "A safe school environment is essential for academic achievement."

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