Department of Public Safety News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 01, 2011
Missouri awards more than $259,000 to North Missouri Drug Task Force
Grant is amont those that will help ensure continued strength of Missouri's important multi-jurisdictional drug task forces
Grant is amont those that will help ensure continued strength of Missouri's important multi-jurisdictional drug task forces
The Missouri Department of Public Safety announced today that the North Missouri Drug Task Force, centered in Adair County, has been awarded $259,958 to combat illegal drugs and drug-related crimes, and to strengthen law enforcement efforts. The grants is one of a series around the state that will help ensure the continued strength of Missouri's multi-jurisdictional drug task forces during tight budget times.
"These grants are designed to make Missouri communities safer and stronger by bolstering the state's highly effective multi-jurisdictional drug task forces in the battle against drugs and drug-related crime," said Department of Public Safety Director John M. Britt. "The grants should make a real difference by allowing these law enforcement agencies to continue to devote significant resources to the fight against illegal drugs.”
Including the grant to the North Missouri Drug Task Force, multi-jurisdictional task forces are receiving a total of $7,135,243 in federal Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grants (JAG) across the state.
JAG grants are being awarded to 27 multi-jurisdictional drug task forces operated by counties and municipalities; one program that responds to clandestine methamphetamine labs and provides important supplies to emergency response personnel; two prosecutorial efforts to combat drugs; one program focused on preventing drug use through education and early intervention; one prosecutorial program to investigate sexual and domestic abuse; one law enforcement agency for advancing evidence management through technology; four law enforcement agencies for equipment purchases; and one program that assists the Department of Public Safety develop crime fighting strategy.
The grants will utilize $1,340,236 from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
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For more information, call 573-751-5432 or e-mail mike.oconnell@dps.mo.gov