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Norwalk to accept $18,382 DOJ JAG award to fund patrols at houses of worship
Summary
The council authorized the mayor and police chief to accept an $18,382 Department of Justice (BJA JAG) award to support increased uniform patrols safeguarding houses of worship; the grant period runs from an October start through September 2027, the deputy chief said.
The Norwalk City Council authorized acceptance of a Department of Justice Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) award at the Aug. 11 meeting to fund increased uniform patrols aimed at protecting houses of worship and religious institutions.
Deputy Chief Melissa Lepore reported the DOJ awarded $18,382 and described the use of funds: "The DOJ has come back now and has awarded us funding in the amount of $18,382." She said the grant start date began in "October 24" (as stated in the presentation) and the period for utilizing the funding extends through September 2027. Lepore said the department will use the funds to implement a proactive approach to safeguard services, religious holidays and institutions that typically lack sufficient security resources.
A council motion authorized the mayor to execute documents to accept the grant and authorized the chief of police to execute any necessary documents; the motion carried on a unanimous voice/hand vote. The deputy chief framed the award as a way to strengthen partnerships with religious institutions and to address a documented rise in threats, vandalism and hate incidents against such institutions.
