Law enforcement agencies in North Alabama will receive more than $7 million through grant programs

ALABAMA (WHNT) – The U.S. Department of Justice has awarded more than $7.2 million to several law enforcement agencies in North Alabama.

The Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) and the Bureau of Justice Assistance have awarded $7,256,829 to several different agencies to help fund law enforcement technology and community policing initiatives, according to a press release sent Tuesday.

“Local law enforcement and officers are the everyday superheroes in our communities, keeping us safe,” said U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona. “I am grateful to the Department of Justice COPS Office and the Bureau of Justice Assistance for this much-needed assistance in ensuring the safety of our families and communities.”

Agencies in Hartselle, Fort Payne, Jackson County, Limestone County and Madison County were among those that received funding through these COPS grant programs.

A list of North Alabama agencies awarded funding is below:

• COPS Office Community Policing Development Program
  • The National Association of School Resource Officers received $200,000 to provide SRO training.
• COPS Office Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Implementation Program
  • The city of Hartselle received $25,000.
• COPS Office Technology and Equipment Program
  • The City of Fort Payne received $670,000 to improve its local communications and emergency response systems.
  • The Jackson County Commission received $250,000 for additional patrol vehicles.
  • The Limestone County Commission received $425,000 to improve security and surveillance at the county courthouse.
  • The Madison County Commission received $195,000 to improve security and surveillance at the county jail.

The full list of award winners can be found on the DOJ website. Information about information grants awarded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance can be found here.