MONTGOMERY — Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded two grants totaling $93,663 to assist victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and prosecute offenders in west Alabama and the Jefferson County metropolitan area.
“Domestic violence and sexual assault crimes are inexcusable,” Gov. Ivey said. “These grants will ensure victims are allocated proper services and that offenders are held accountable for their crimes.”
Crisis Center Inc. of Birmingham was awarded $46,163 to serve domestic violence and sexual assault victims in Blount, Jefferson, St. Clair and Walker counties. The agency provides forensic medical examinations and other medical needs in addition to providing court advocacy and counseling services.
The 24th Judicial Circuit Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Unit, serving Fayette, Lamar and Pickens counties, was awarded $47,500 to prosecute offenders. The unit works with law enforcement agencies to provide public education programs as another way to combat domestic violence and sexual abuse. The Pickens County Commission serves as the fiduciary agent for the grant.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the awards from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice.
“ADECA supports Gov. Ivey and these agencies in their efforts to assist victims and see that offenders are arrested and convicted,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.
ADECA administers a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, victim programs, economic development, water resource management, energy conservation and recreation.
-30-
