Several Acadiana law enforcement agencies will soon be receiving grant money courtesy of the federal Office of Justice.

More than $2.4 million have been awarded to 15 agencies within Louisiana's western district, reported U.S. Attorney Stephanie Finley.

Of Acadiana's grant recipients, the Lafayette Police Department will receive the largest sum totaling $224, 000 allocated to improve safety for domestic violence victims.

“These grants will help to strengthen law enforcement agencies and other organizations, which will benefit the public throughout this District,” Finley stated. “The purchase of equipment, upgrade of technology and improvement to law enforcement safety that these grants will fund demonstrates the commitment the Department of Justice and my office have to help local agencies meet the challenges facing them.”

The other Acadiana agencies to receive grant money include:

  • Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office -- $92,126 to support law enforcement initiatives.
  • Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office --  $16,846 to purchase computer equipment.
  • St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office -- $36,444 to purchase supplies, equipment and new technology.
  • St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office -- $13,194 to purchase equipment
  • Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana --  $544,768 through the FY 2015 Indian Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program (IASAP), from the Bureau of Justice Assistance, to be used to implement an IASAP.

The Office of Justice Programs (OJP) provides federal leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to prevent and control crime, administer justice and assist victims.

More From 97.3 The Dawg