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An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership

Notice: Critical Program Information (Click here.)

Eligibility

Jurisdiction Eligibility

According to the Act, jurisdictions are considered the most basic unit of government recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau. This includes towns, cities, villages, boroughs, parishes, counties, states, Indian tribes and special government districts. Your jurisdiction is eligible to apply for funding if it is a recognized unit of general government and it employs eligible law enforcement officers.

A Jurisdiction Is

Examples of Jurisdictions

The most basic unit of government recognized by the US Census Bureau. By taking on the role of the Jurisdiction you are taking on the role of your town, city, county or state.

  • The State of Pennsylvania
  • The County of Allegheny
  • The City of Pittsburgh
  • The Township of Ross

(Ross Township is a suburb of Pittsburgh, with a Pittsburgh mailing address. BUT Ross Township is a separate Jurisdiction.)

Law Enforcement Officer Eligibility

According to the Act, the term "Law Enforcement Officer" means any officer, agent, or employee of a State, unit of local government, or an Indian tribe authorized by law or by a government agency to engage in or supervise the prevention, detection, or investigation of any violation of criminal law, or authorized by law to supervise sentenced criminal offenders. This includes full and part-time personnel, whether paid or volunteer. (View complete listing).

A Law Enforcement Agency Is

Examples of Law Enforcement Agencies 

An organization that provides law enforcement services, as defined by the Act.

  • Pennsylvania State Police
  • Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
  • Allegheny County Sheriff
  • Allegheny County Public Defenders Office
  • Pittsburgh City Police
  • Pittsburgh Housing Authority

 For immediate assistance, please call us toll-free at 1-877-758-3787. You may also reach us by email at vests@usdoj.gov   

Date Created: December 30, 2019