June 30, 2009

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department will receive $777,820 in funds from the 2009 Justice Assistance Grant. These funds must be used for law enforcement purposes and are expected to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the agencies receiving them. At present, CMPD is planning to use the funds for three purposes:

• Additional overtime hours in the 13 patrol divisions so officers can be deployed to address emerging crime trends and other issues affecting their assigned neighborhoods.
  
• Funding the Police Cadet Program under which college students can work for CMPD and get exposure to police work prior to applying to become a CMPD officer.
  
• Expanding the offerings of the Police Athletic League to include after-school and summer programs that emphasize academics and life skills.

CMPD will accept public comment on the use of these funds for the next 30 days (through July 30). Comments can be directed to Darrellyn Kiser.