Senator Charles E. Schumer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 3, 2009

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES ECONOMIC STIMULUS PACKAGE WILL DELIVER NEARLY $1.8 MILLION TO ROCHESTER FINGER LAKES FOR CRIME CONTROL AND PREVENTION PROGRAM

Funding Awarded Through Justice Assistance Grant Program for Orleans, Monroe, Wayne, Genesee, Ontario, Livingston and Wyoming Counties

Over $43 Million Will Go to NYS for to Help Prevent State and Local Crime

Schumer: This is Another Example of the Stimulus At Work

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that the economic stimulus package will deliver $1,789,096 to the Rochester Finger Lakes Region under the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. The federal funds will be used for crime control and prevention programs.

“This is another example of how the Economic Recovery package will help alleviate local and state budget crunches and prevent the kinds of cuts that might undermine public safety,” said Schumer. “When it comes to protecting our citizens, we need to be tough on crime and smart on prevention. These much needed funds will help to bring the quality people and first-rate technology that allow Rochester Finger Lakes families to live safely and comfortably. I will continue to fight for funds that help close budget gaps, create and save jobs and protect our communities.”

The stimulus package will include over $43 million for New York law enforcement efforts. It is a sad reality that during economic downturns, crime increases, and funds to hire more law enforcement personnel to combat rising crime are hard to come by. These increases in grant programs will help the Rochester Finger Lakes and the entire state combat rising crime, and help police departments maintain current employment levels. Many communities face massive budget deficits and without this help, may be forced to lay-off police officers.

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own local needs and conditions. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice for any one or more of the following purpose areas: 1) law enforcement programs; 2) prosecution and court programs; 3) prevention and education programs; 4) corrections and community corrections programs; 5) drug treatment programs; and 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs.

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