The St. Louis County Police Department in Missouri is receiving a boost in funding to enhance public safety efforts. County Executive Sam Page will be signing five bills to accept over $2.4 million in grants aimed at tackling various serious issues such as child exploitation, domestic violence, drug trafficking, and dangerous driving.
A significant portion of the funding, more than $268,000, will go towards covering the salaries and benefits of three detectives working in the county police department’s domestic violence unit. Additionally, just over $298,000 from the Missouri Department of Public Safety will support the salaries of eight detectives who are part of the multi-jurisdictional drug task force.
Furthermore, a grant exceeding $331,000 from the Missouri Department of Public Safety will contribute to the payment of three detectives in the special investigations unit that focuses on crimes involving the exploitation of children. Another substantial amount, nearly $722,000 from the office of national drug control policy, will be allocated to fund a task force and other initiatives geared towards reducing the presence of illicit drugs on the streets, including potent substances like fentanyl.
Moreover, close to $788,000 from the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Division will be directed towards combating dangerous driving behaviors, particularly targeting individuals who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The official signing of the bills is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Tuesday at the newly established Affton Southwest Precinct, which is also referred to as the Officer Blake Snyder building.
This increased funding will undoubtedly bolster the efforts of the St. Louis County Police Department in ensuring the safety and security of residents in the county. By investing in specialized units and task forces dedicated to addressing key societal challenges, the department is taking proactive steps to combat crime and protect vulnerable populations within the community.
