NOT FOUND: federal grant.jpgThe Twin Rivers District Police Department has been awarded a $359.996 grant from the US Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) to enhance school safety. The grant was awarded under COPS’ Secure Our Schools program, which provides funds to improve security in schools and on school grounds.
The grant will be used to enhance and supplement an existing surveillance camera system. Currently, over 350 cameras are monitored 24 hours a day. The cameras have deterred crime, improved security and have been useful in identifying, arresting and prosecuting subjects for vandalisms, burglaries and other crimes.
Chief of Police Christopher Breck said, “This is exciting news! We appreciate any assistance that allows us to further our mission which is the safety and security of our schools and community. It is our top priority.”
The increased security is also expected to have a positive impact on the district’s budget. In addition to providing an alternative source of funding for safety measures, one of the outcomes expected is a decrease in property crimes.
“The destruction of school property is expensive, not only for our schools but for our community of taxpayers,” said Breck. “It is sad when those types of crimes happen because it takes sorely needed resources away from our classrooms. This grant will help us keep more resources in our classrooms.”
Security surveys and statistics will be reviewed to determine how and where to best allocate the Secure Our Schools funds throughout district sites.