Montgomery County Police recently received a $499,993 competitive Federal grant to tackle the opioid epidemic and firearm-related challenges.
This funding will empower MCPD to handle cases more efficiently, process evidence faster, and keep abreast of advancements in forensic science, according to a county press release.
“One of the reasons I advocated for the establishment of our new Office of Grants Management was to more aggressively go after and win competitive grants such as this Department of Justice grant that will assist the Montgomery County Police Department’s forensic crime lab to more quickly and effectively solve crimes,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “I am grateful to the Department of Justice for this funding opportunity and applaud our Office of Grants Management and the Police Department for their work in securing these competitive funds. Investing in state-of-the-art technology is an important component of our public safety efforts. We are going to see improved results and quicker turnaround time from our crime lab due to us securing this important competitive grant.”
The U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance awarded the grant through the Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grant Program. This grant will equip MCPD’s forensic crime lab with crucial tools such as a mass spectrometer, a high-capacity virtual microscopy scanner with analysis software, and the hiring of a contracted firearm and toolmark examiner.
Police Chief Marcus Jones expressed that this grant will significantly enhance the department’s crime-solving capabilities and contribute to enhancing safety in the county.
“By securing this grant, the Montgomery County Police Department’s forensic crime lab is poised to make significant strides in addressing the challenges posed by the opioid epidemic and gun crimes,” said Chief Jones. “This strategic investment will not only reduce caseload backlogs, but also will bolster our ability to solve crimes, prevent drug-related deaths and create a safer community for all County residents.”
Montgomery County Graphic
🚨🔬@mcpnews received a $499,993 DOJ grant to tackle the opioid crisis & firearm crimes! This boost will supercharge forensic science, speeding up crime-solving & enhancing public safety. Kudos to MCPD & the new Office of Grants Management! 🛡️🚓
🔗 https://t.co/19kI2KF4O3 pic.twitter.com/hv9WIqs8vT
— Montgomery County MD (@MontgomeryCoMD) February 29, 2024