COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS SENATE
STATE HOUSE, BOSTON 02133
Senator Joan B. Lovely
State Senator
2nd Essex District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 3, 2024
Salem Police Department Awarded $87,285 in Federal Funding for Gun Violence Prevention
Funding supports crisis intervention and firearm injury prevention efforts
(BOSTON—2/3/2025) Senate Assistant Majority Leader Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem) is pleased to announce the Salem Police Department has been awarded $87,285.45 in funding through the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program to support local efforts in preventing firearm deaths and injuries.
Funding is available to support suicide prevention training for veteran service officers, crisis intervention and de-escalation training for local police, outreach regarding Extreme Risk Protection Orders (ERPO) and evidence-based youth violence prevention programs. Under the conditions of the federal program, the funds may not be used for the purpose of enforcement activities.
“This funding will provide critical resources to help law enforcement de-escalate crises, prevent gun violence, and protect members of the public,” said Senator Lovely. “Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for prioritizing evidence-based solutions that enhance safety and reduce gun violence in our communities.”
The grant, administered by the Office of Grants and Research (OGR) and funded by the U.S. Department of Justice, is part of a statewide investment aimed at strengthening crisis intervention and gun violence prevention initiatives across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
“Responding to the complex issue of gun violence requires both public safety and public health interventions. These grants support evidence-based efforts to prevent firearm injuries and deaths, increase crisis intervention training for law enforcement, and improve the safety of Massachusetts communities. The funds complement our administration’s commitment to holistic approaches to public safety and reducing gun deaths,” said Governor Healey.
###