Georgia Governor Brian Kemp on Friday announced new grants for training for law enforcement officers, totaling more than $5 million.
The grants were dished out to state and local law enforcement agencies across Georgia, with the highest individual award, totaling approximately $1 million, given to the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.
“We are committed to providing our brave law enforcement officers the specialized training and resources they need to keep Georgians safe,” said Kemp. “This grant program will help pay for essential training – including in use of force and de-escalation – for state and local law enforcement officers to ensure they are prepared for whatever they may encounter while protecting their communities.”
The funds, which were awarded by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), will be used for “scenario-based, hands-on training for law enforcement officers in use of force or de-escalation.” Furthermore, the group placed an emphasis on Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) and Officer Mental Health programs.
The Georgia Legislature established the CJCC in 1981, and the council provides financial assistance to “innovative programs and services to improve criminal justice and empower victims in the state of Georgia.”
In total, the governor detailed that 46 grants were awarded.
“Governor Kemp and the Georgia legislature have made it a priority to provide our law enforcement officers with the training and resources they need to better serve the people of Georgia, and we at CJCC are pleased to be a part of this effort,” said CJCC Executive Director Jay Neal.
Late last year, Kemp supplied a $1,000 pay bonus to all eligible sworn law enforcement officials and first responders in Georgia, utilizing funds from the American Rescue Plan Act.
“Our law enforcement officials and first responders answered the call of duty and bravely served on the front line of our fight against COVID-19, despite the unprecedented challenges thrown their way,” said Kemp at the time.
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Star News Network. Follow Cooper on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
Background Photo “State Police” by Governor Tom Wolf CC BY 2.0.
