MONTGOMERY – Several northeast Alabama law enforcement agencies have received much-needed funding, thanks to grants from the U.S. Department of Justice through the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

Gov. Kay Ivey awarded the grants totaling $113,765 to help five law enforcement agencies purchase or update equipment.

“Equipping local law enforcement with the latest tools enables them to be better prepared to protect and serve our communities,” Ivey said. “I am pleased to assist these law enforcement agencies in their efforts to keep their officers and communities safe.”

• The town of Valley Head is using $23,572 to purchase new digital radio communication equipment for the police department. This will bring the department in line with digital communications being used by other first responders and emergency services in DeKalb County.
• The town of Ider is using $18,700 to purchase replacement Tasers for the police department to give officers more options to safely subdue suspects in the field.
• The city of Henagar is using $23,492 to purchase four portable radios that will be compatible with police cruiser and dispatch communications used by law enforcement throughout DeKalb County.
• With $24,000 in grant funds, the city of Scottsboro will purchase radios and cameras for the police department.
• The city of Centre will use $24,000 in grant funds to replace a patrol vehicle and add body cameras for the police department.

ADECA manages a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy conservation and water resources management.

“Gov. Ivey and ADECA support the efforts of these municipalities to assist their officers and deputies in serving and protecting their communities,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.