Description: The Byrne/JAG program is one of the federal government’s longest-standing and most flexible criminal justice programs.  The program is named for New York City Police Officer Edward Byrne who was shot and killed in the line of duty in 1988.

For over 30 years, Byrne/JAG grants have funded innovations in Wisconsin’s criminal justice system, including multi-jurisdictional drug enforcement units, treatment and diversion programs, literacy initiatives for incarcerated persons, technology for law enforcement and prosecutors and crime data collection and analysis.

How do I apply for Byrne/JAG funding?

The Wisconsin Office of Justice Assistance will announce state Byrne/JAG funding opportunities on its website, www.OJA.wi.gov.  Applications must be submitted through its online grants management system, Egrants.

What can funding be used for?

Solutions to crime trends are unique to each community, and the Byrne/JAG program gives flexibility to local officials to invest in programs and projects that will have the greatest impact in their communities.  The seven purpose areas for Byrne/JAG funding are:

• Law enforcement programs
• Prosecution and court programs
• Prevention and education programs
• Corrections and community corrections programs
• Drug treatment programs
• Planning, evaluation and technology improvement programs
• Crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation)

How will this funding help Wisconsin citizens and communities?

Byrne/JAG funding can be used by local municipalities to fill budget gaps and avoid cuts to police service, prosecutor’s offices and other justice programs.  This will protect public safety, which is one of the most essential elements of economic recovery.

Investments will be made in Wisconsin’s future by creating jobs that will reduce future costs to state and local criminal justice systems.  By investing in local diversion, treatment, supervision and community re-entry programs, hundreds of well-paying jobs will be created, helping to address the number of individuals committing crimes and entering the criminal justice system.

Where can I find information on where and how the money has been spent?

Recipients of state-awarded Byrne/JAG funding are required to submit spending plans and progress reports to the Wisconsin Office of Justice Assistance.  Once these grant awards have been made, they will be posted on the OJA website, www.OJA.wi.gov

 
Organization Information:
Organization: BJA Technical Assistance Program
Website: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/

Contact Information:
Contact Name: Dennis C. Schuh
Contact Email: dennis.schuh@wisconsin.gov
Contact Phone: 608-266-7682

More Information:
http://oja.wi.gov/section.asp?linkid=1548&locid=97