Contact: Virginia Davis (202) 224-9215
Friday, May 13, 2005

WASHINGTON, D. C.--- U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL) announced today that the Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) that applications are available for 2005 grants. The following three grants are currently open for select law enforcement agencies:

• Interoperable Communications Technology Programs: Nearly $100 million is available to law enforcement to improve interoperability between law enforcement agencies an other first responders. Deadline for applying is July 15, 2005.
  
  

• Secure Our Schools (SOS) Grant Program: Nearly $15 million is available to law enforcement agencies to purchase school safety equipment and technology. Deadline for applying is June 15, 2005.
  
  

• Tribal Resources Grant Program (TRGP): Up to $20 million is available to address the needs of tribal law enforcement by providing a variety of funding options. They include salary and benefits for new sworn law officer positions, law enforcement training, uniforms, basic-issue equipment, department-wide technology, and vehicles for new and existing officers. Deadline for applying is May 31, 2005.
  
  

Senator Shelby said, “I encourage law enforcement agencies to examine these different programs to determine if they are eligible. It is important that we continue working to improve our various law enforcement programs. By investing in their continued growth, we are making a commitment to the safety of our citizens. I believe these are worthwhile programs, and I am pleased the Department of Justice has given agencies the opportunity to apply for these grants,” Shelby concluded.

For more information on these grants programs, visit http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/default.asp?Item=1474.