This Fact Sheet on the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program provides a program overview, statewide strategic plans, reporting requirements, reductions/penalties, and compliance with the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS).
Named after Edward “Eddie” R. Byrne, an officer in the New York City Police Department who was murdered while protecting a witness, the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is the leading federal source of criminal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. Information is provided on Officer Byrne’s career and the circumstances of his death while performing his duties. Administered by the U.S. Justice Department’s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), the JAG Program provides states, territories, tribes, and local governments with funding needed to support a range of criminal justice program areas. In addressing JAG funding and awards, this Fact Sheet provides information on the JAG formula in determining grants, eligibility and program guidance, areas of interest, how and when to apply, and award length. The Fact Sheet also addresses statewide strategic plans, which pertain to the impact of JAG funding decisions across a state’s entire criminal justice system. Reporting requirements for JAG grantees are outlined, along with reductions/penalties for JAG state grantees that have not substantially implemented the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). The Fact Sheet also discusses JAG grantees’ requirements in complying with the federal NIBRS and the federal Death in Custody Reporting Act.