Oklahoma AG Office offers assistance to Sheriffs

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - On Tuesday, the Attorney General's Office announced it will pursue getting a grant for sheriffs in an effort to bolster services within their counties.

The new grant under House Bill 2914 created the Oklahoma Sheriff's Office Funding Assistance Grant Program and appropriated $18 million to the fund, according to the AG's office.

“This funding will help enhance law enforcement services throughout our state. I’m pleased we are able to help sheriff’s offices strengthen their operations on behalf of public safety.”

Attorney General Gentner Drummond

Counties can apply for grants from $150,000 to $300,000, depending on their total tangible property valuation. Grants are primed to be used for sheriff office operations including training, technology, equipment, to capital improvements.

“County law enforcement, one of the lowest-paid agencies in the state, is getting a much-needed lift. As property tax dollars can no longer fully support the rising costs, this grant will make a significant difference,” he said. “This will surely have a positive impact on community safety and well-being.”

Ray McNair, executive director of the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association, said all sheriffs will have the opportunity to boost their maintenance and operations budgets this year.

Grant applications once distributed to sheriff’s offices must be approved and submitted by the Board of County Commissioners.

The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Sept. 6.