The grants to the Dallas County Commission will help fund two programs. A $50,000 grant will help continue the county’s Family Drug Court program, and a $100,000 grant will assist the Fourth Judicial Circuit’s Gang Task Force that works in Bibb, Dallas, Hale, Perry and Wilcox counties.

“Fighting crime and reducing recidivism rates is important to the health and safety of our communities,” Gov. Ivey said. “I am pleased to provide these funds that will help Dallas County and the Fourth Judicial Circuit continue their crime reduction efforts.”

The Family Drug Court program seeks to treat substance abuse while reducing overcrowding in jails. The program includes court supervision, drug screenings, assessment and case management. The Gang Task Force focuses on reducing gang activity and associated crime within the five counties of the Fourth Judicial Circuit.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice.

“Gov. Ivey understands the importance of safety in our communities and is dedicated to crime reduction,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA joins her in supporting the efforts of these two programs.”

ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim services, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.

Gov. Ivey notified County Commission Chairman Jimmy Nunn that the grants had been approved.