Over $800,000 in funds will support law enforcement operations and expand victims’ access to legal services
Texas Border Business
WASHINGTON – Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) today announced that U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded a combined $802,799 to five public and private sector applicants in the 15th District of Texas for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018.
The funding will be distributed as follows:
- The Pharr Police Department has received $17,456 for the Rifle-Resistant Body Armor, and Mobile Data Terminals (MDT) project.
- Hidalgo County has received $45,971 for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JA) program.
- The City of Edinburg has received $25,568 for the City of Edinburg Police Department’s portable radios.
- The City of McAllen has received $13,804 for the McAllen Crime Prevention project.
- Texas RioGrande Legal Aid, Inc. has received $700,000 for comprehensive legal services for trafficking victims.
“Whether it be funding to improve efficiency of local police departments or funding to bolster legal services for victims of trafficking, every dollar awarded is going to make an impact on the safety and security of residents in the 15th District of Texas,” Congressman Gonzalez said. “I thank the U.S. Department of Justice for recognizing the needs of these groups and granting them the opportunity to move forward with strategies that protect communities in the Rio Grande Valley.”
This funding from the DOJ comes through two venues: 1.) the BJA’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program; and 2.) the Office of Victims of Crime – Human Trafficking.
Congressman Gonzalez continues to be an advocate for federal dollars to improve and safeguard communities in Central and South Texas.
