The jones county sheriffs department will utilize fiscal year (FY) 2023 local edward byrne memorial justice assistance grant (JAG) program funding in the amount of $19,240.00 to purchase ballistic…

The jones county sheriffs department will utilize fiscal year (FY) 2023 local edward byrne memorial justice assistance grant (JAG) program funding in the amount of $19,240.00 to purchase ballistic gear and helmets, individual tactical first aid kits, and related law enforcement equipment which will be issued to deputies in the SWAT-patrol division. The jones county sheriffs department will conduct training for the entire department with regard to crisis intervention, DE-escalation techniques along with cultural, ethnic, religious and lifestyle sensitivity training. Training will also include certification in use of the requested ballistic protection equipment in high risk, escalating and evolving situations so that deputies may confidently and safely respond to these situations. These tools have the great potential to save the lives of non-compliant offenders and officers as well while greatly lessening the possibility of a deadly force encounter. These devices are excellent deterrents and when properly used can serve as a tremendous asset to any patrol deputy, investigator and narcotics agents who is trained properly and can confidently use the equipment.