Cherokee Police Department to receive $1 million grant

"The best way to fight crime is to have more well-trained police officers in our communities and to provide them with the most up-to-date equipment and technology," Edwards said. "The COPS program allows North Carolina's police officers to spend more of their time where they are needed most - out in the community."

The Eastern Band of Cherokees will receive $750,000 to hire 10 new law enforcement officers and $257,663 to upgrade equipment. Funds were awarded under the Department of Justice's Community Oriented Policing Services Tribal Resources Grant Program.

The COPS program was part of a 1994 crime bill that authorized hiring 100,000 police officers nationwide. Across North Carolina, communities have received more than $137 million in grants to help pay salaries or purchase equipment necessary to put 2,617 officers on the streets.

Crime rates have declined dramatically since the bill was enacted. Nationally, the crime rate is the lowest it has been in 26 years. In North Carolina, violent crime is down 7 percent since 1994.

"Our streets and neighborhoods are safer because more cops are on the beat," Sen. Edwards said. "This program works, and it should be continued."

Edwards is co-sponsoring legislation that would extend the Community Oriented Policing Services program through 2005 to help strengthen law enforcement agencies across North Carolina.

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