LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Monday, Governor Whitmer announced that multiple police agencies across the state will be receiving additional public safety initiatives.
Michigan State Police (MSP) was awarded a $182,328 g
Other funds will be used to support law enforcement agencies in seeking accreditation, among other projects.
The governor also announced 11 other local agencies across the state are being awarded a total of $1,025,138.
“I applaud the Department of Justice for investing in Michigan’s public safety by awarding our State Police and 11 local agencies across the state over $1 million in grants,” Governor Whitmer said in a statement. “Michigan’s brave troopers and law enforcement officers are at the forefront of the crucial work needed to reduce crime and keep our communities safe. Thanks to this grant, MSP is able to continue its efforts to strengthen de-escalation train
Last year, Governor Whitmer partnered with law enforcement organizations and community leaders to help strengthen police-community relations.
“At the core of de-escalation is communication. Our troopers and the communities we serve benefit when we improve how we approach and treat each other,” Col. Joe Gasper, director of the MSP said in a statement. “We’re grateful for the grant that will allow us to build upon the training we currently provide to our recruits and move it into the field by implementing a consistent program for all of our nearly 2,100 enforcement members.”
Among those receiving grants is Kalamazoo Township, which will be awarded $74,999. The money will be used to support the department in seeking accreditation, according to the announcement.
Elsewhere in West Michigan, the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians will receive $51,205, which will also be used in seeking accreditation.
To see a full list of who is receiving the grants, click here.