U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced today that the City of Belleville has received a $260,737 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. Belleville will use the funds for law enforcement equipment and training, enhancing officer safety and improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the dispatchers and officers.
"We know that these types of programs enhance the ability of local law enforcement to do their jobs," said Costello, a former law enforcement official. "By reducing and preventing crime, we are not only making our neighborhoods safer, we are facilitating economic development."
Source: http://costello.house.gov/press/2011/aug19_2.shtml
