Owens Announces Grant for Jefferson Law Enforcement

Funding to support security

at Watertown High School

Congressman Bill Owens announced today funding for Watertown Police and the Jefferson County Sherriff’s Department to be used to support the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program at Watertown High School. The grant will be awarded in the amount of $18,925 and is funded through the Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) under the U.S. Department of Justice.

“Parents deserve peace of mind when they drop their children off at school,” said Owens. “The SRO program at Watertown High School allows local students to focus on their education and assures their parents that their children are in a safe environment. I am glad to see this funding go to such a productive and successful program.”

The Student Resource Officer Program is typically funded by the local school district. The JAG grant will help to offset costs for the Jefferson County Sherriff’s Department, Watertown Police, and the school district.

“We are thankful that these programs are available to fund our SRO program,” said Watertown Chief of Police Joseph Goss. “We know that all jurisdictions in Jefferson County are watching their finances, and we are happy that we’re able to provide this program for Watertown High School.”

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program allows states and units of local government, including tribes, to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crimes based on their own state and local needs. Grant funds can be used for law enforcement, prevention and education programs, corrections, drug treatment, and crime victim and witness programs.

“We appreciate any type of funding we receive for the SRO program, and we are in favor of continuing it,” said Jefferson County Sheriff John P. Burns.