MARION COUNTY HAS RECEIVED $103,000 THROUGH THIS PROGRAM

Washington, Jun 29, 2006 - "The Law Enforcement Technology Program assists local law enforcement agencies in upgrading and expanding fingerprint identification equipment to conduct required criminal background checks," stated Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-Ocala).  "The program also provides for automated equipment to reduce the time law enforcement officers spend on the side of the road handwriting traffic violations.  In the past, Marion County received $37,000 to enhance its fingerprinting capabilities, and $66,000 for automated equipment to streamline the writing and processing of tickets.  I am hopeful that future grants will help Marion County continue on these improvements."

Stearns' request to authorize funding for the Law Enforcement Technology Program was included in H.R. H.R. 5672, the Science, State, Justice & Commerce Appropriations Act.  The Department of Justice will determine the specific grant amounts.