The Department of Emergency Management has announced the availability of federal pass-through State Homeland Security Grant funds to enhance the ability of first responders to prepare, prevent, respond, and recover from terrorist attacks and other disasters.

The Sheriff’s Office would like to submit a grant application under the equipment category in order to purchase and enhance their capabilities in targeting crimes with a nexus to terrorism.  The requested items include: sonar for the Lake Anna patrol boat, items in support of the Dive Team, an infrared camera for the unmanned aerial systems with associated equipment for nighttime identification purposes, forensic computer software and hardware for the Criminal Investigation Division, thermal imager and hearing protection for the K9 unit, and a roadside public notification board, i.e. to advise of threats, divert traffic, etc.  If approved, the Sheriff’s Office would request up to $95,834 for these items. There is no local match requirement.  The Sheriff’s Office does not anticipate that there will be any ongoing costs associated with these items if the grant is approved.

The grant application deadline is June 15, 2019.  If awarded, the period of performance would be from November 1, 2019 through June 30, 2021.

Major Carter Wells, Sheriff’s Office

 Captain Charles Carey, Sheriff’s Office

 Annette D’Alessandro, Finance

If the request to apply is denied, the Sheriff’s Office will forego the opportunity to potentially use federal funds to enhance the safety of first responders and the public.