Justice assistance grant applications open for local law enforcement agencies

RUSSELLVILLE, Ky. – Gov. Andy Beshear’s office released a statement saying that applications are now open for rural law enforcement agencies to apply for federal funding to help tackle drug trafficking and help build safer communities.

The office said the total funding available is $2.1 million that’s supported by the justice assistance grant, which allows law enforcement agencies with proper funding to better serve their communities by bringing financial relief.

Logan County Sheriff Stephen Stratton says the grants help aid in the justice system. 

“Things are taxpayer funded, you know, we just have to pinch pennies sometimes. We can’t get everything we need at one time, so with the grants coming in, we can apply for them. We can upgrade our stuff without creating a bigger burden on our budgets with our county,” Stratton said.

He also said this helps with better equipment.

“With these grants, we’re able to keep a pretty good pace whether it’s flock or body cams, bullet proof vests, ammunition, I mean there is a pretty good effort on our governor for issuing that, but also it’s a huge partnership,” he said.

“Our state and local law enforcement help make sure our families are safe at work, home, school and on the roads,” Beshear said in the release. “This annual funding allows us to support them in their work, helping to keep them safe and to make sure they can return home to their families at the end of each shift.”

The deadline to submit applications is Aug. 20.