From the HERE City State Desk
The U.S. Justice Department is sending more than $4.5 million in grants to law enforcement agencies and community groups in eastern North Carolina, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District announced Wednesday.
The largest award, $1,320,496, goes to the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation. Cumberland County will receive $994,593, Onslow County $682,553 and the town of Ahoskie $606,000. Smaller grants go to the town of Wendell, $259,000, and Raleigh Boots on the Ground, $295,000.
Two statewide advocacy groups are also on the list. The N.C. Coalition Against Sexual Assault will receive $236,484, and the N.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence will receive $106,581.
The money will support efforts against internet crimes against children, community and hospital-based violence intervention programs, and services for victims of domestic and sexual assault. Agencies can also use it to buy patrol cars, in-car cameras, ballistic helmets and shields, robotic vehicles and a mobile command post.
U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle said the grants are meant to give local officers the tools they need to protect communities and reduce violence.
The Eastern District covers 44 counties, including rural areas, coastal communities and major military installations.