NORWALK, Conn. — The Norwalk Police Department is set to receive $18,047 in federal grant funding as part of a broader initiative to enhance public safety across Fairfield County, thanks to the Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program. Congressman Jim Himes (D) announced the grants, totaling $200,000, which will also benefit police departments in Bridgeport and Stamford.
Norwalk Police Chief James Walsh highlighted how the funding will directly impact the community. “The awarding of JAG and DOJ grants has provided the Norwalk Police Department with increased technology in the area of license plate readers to deter car theft and car burglary in Norwalk regions that have seen an increase in property crimes since COVID,” he said. “DOJ grants have also allowed the department to multiply our social services in our Behavioral Health Unit by adding a second full-time social worker to our unit to provide a cadre of social services and outreach. Awarding these grants with the assistance of Congressman Himes has bolstered public safety, lowered crime, and allowed us to provide more social work resources to the residents of Norwalk.”
The funding allocated to Norwalk will cover overtime costs to increase patrols and enhance safety at sensitive locations such as houses of worship, election sites, and schools. It will also support the purchase of advanced audio-visual GPS-enabled monitoring equipment for undercover operations, two new laser devices for speed enforcement, and a speed feedback sign…