NCJ Number
205705
Date Published
March 2004
Length
2 pages
Annotation
After a brief review of the history of the Universal Hiring Program (UHP), which was created by the Federal Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS), this "Fact Sheet" describes fiscal year 2004 UHP funding provisions.
Abstract
Established in 1995, the UHP enables participating agencies to supplement their current sworn force and supports jurisdictions in the creation of a new agency. Through the UHP and earlier hiring programs of the COPS, more than $5 billion has been awarded to hire over 68,000 law enforcement professionals. UHP grants cover up to 75 percent of the approved entry-level salary and benefits of each newly hired additional officer position over 3 years. There is a maximum Federal contribution of $75,000 per officer or deputy position over the 3-year grant period. A minimum 25 percent local match is required. COPS grant funds must not be used to replace local funds that agencies would otherwise have committed to hiring sworn officers. All grant recipients must develop a written plan to retain any COPS-funded officer positions awarded for at least one full local budget cycle after Federal funding has ended. For fiscal year 2004, priority consideration will be given to those applications that demonstrate a use of funds related to terrorism preparedness or response through community policing. The COPS Office will not be offering an open solicitation for UHP in fiscal year 2004. Awards will be made based on applications received in 2002 and 2003.