Five Broome County police agencies will be receiving additional funding to expand community policing during the summer months.
Broome County District Attorney Paul Battisti, joined by local officials, announced on June 17 that his office would be investing $52,500 from the Traffic Diversion Fund, which collects money from traffic tickets, into local law enforcement.
The Binghamton Police Department, Endicott Police Department, Johnson City Police Department, Vestal Police Department and the Broome County Sheriff’s Office will be receiving $10,500 each.
Battisti said the awarded money will be used for existing community policing initiatives in any way that the departments deem necessary to continue the expansion of dedicated bike, foot and car patrols around neighborhoods, parks and other community spaces.
He said the funding will allow law enforcement more opportunities to “engage in proactive policing” by talking to residents and business owners about safety concerns.
“All law enforcement agencies in Broome County have strong, robust community policing initiatives and today’s infusion will only enhance their productivity,” Battisti said.
The resolution to authorize the use of the funding garnered from the Traffic Diversion Program was approved by the Broome County Legislature on June 12.
Johnson City Police Chief Brent Dodge said at the press conference the money his department receives will be going toward bike and foot patrols in the village’s downtown area and at neighborhood parks.
Endicott Police Chief Patrick Garey said the Village of Endicott Police Department plans to put bike and foot patrols in all business districts and neighborhoods in the village throughout the summer.
This article originally appeared on Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin: Broome County DA announces funding for 5 local police departments
Reporting by Jillian McCarthy, Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin / Binghamton Press & Sun-Bulletin
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