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 Selma and Dallas County will receive a combined $1 million in federal funding from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) to fight crime and make Alabama communities safer., U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced Wednesday.

The local investment is part of a nationwide push to prevent and reduce crime by providing federal resources to combat gun violence, sex trafficking, substance abuse, and violence against women and children.

“Making our communities safer for our children and families has always been a top priority of mine,” Sewell said. “This $38 million from the Department of Justice will go a long way in doing just that. Together, these grants will ensure that our community organizations, local law enforcement, and especially our rural police departments have the tools they need to break the cycle of violence, prevent crime, strengthen police accountability, and save lives. I was so proud to advocate for this funding at the federal level and will continue working with our state and local partners to keep Alabamians safe.”

Here is what Selma and Dallas County will receive:

• $26,834 – Edward Byrne JAG Program – The City of Selma will use this funding to tackle gang violence, gun violence, and drugs through the use of overtime for off-duty police officers.  
• $300,000 – Rural and Small Department Violent Crime Reduction Program – The Dallas County Commission will use this funding to implement the District Attorney’s Violent Crime Reduction Program. 
• $764,508 – Family-Based Alternative Justice Program – The Dallas County Commission will implement the Dallas County Family Preservation Program with this funding.