MONTGOMERY – Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded more than $234,751 to help 10 police departments in DeKalb County serve the public more effectively, efficiently and safely.

“All of us owe a debt of gratitude to the men and women who risk their lives enforcing our laws and protecting us,” Ivey said. “We can never repay those officers for their sacrifices, but I am hopeful that these funds will in some way show appreciation for jobs well done.”

Police departments receiving grants and their amount are: Collinsville, Crossville, Fyffe, Geraldine, Mentone, Powell, Valley Head - $24,000 each; and Ider, $23,881.15; Rainsville, $23,100; and Sylvania, $19,770.

Police departments can use their own discretion in determining how to use the funds provided they are law-enforcement related. Many of the departments will purchase new patrol vehicles. Other typical purchases under the equipment grant program include radar devices, bullet-proof vests and computers.

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

“ADECA is proud to join with Gov. Ivey in helping police do their jobs more efficiently, effectively and safely,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.

ADECA administers an array of programs supporting law enforcement and traffic safety, economic development, energy conservation, water resource management and recreation development.

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Contact Jim Plott or Mike Presley