Erie lawmakers announce more than $1 million to protect safety
State funds programs to help improve law enforcement, help survivors
Rep. Ryan Bizzarro September 16, 2024
ERIE, Sept. 16 – State lawmakers announced $1,054,462 in grants for Erie County to improve safety.
“We must be vigilant in providing law enforcement with the tools they need to keep crime on the decline and do everything we can to help survivors recover and reclaim their lives,” said state Rep. Ryan Bizzarro, who represents Fairview and Millcreek townships and previously served as a victim and witness advocate for the Erie District Attorney’s office. “We need to protect public safety, and that’s just one of the reasons why this year’s budget will put about 400 more state police on the job.”
The Shapiro-Davis administration supported $80 million in funds statewide and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency approved several types of grants that included:
- Erie Crime Victim Center of Erie County $588,672.
- Erie Safe Journey Rural Domestic Violence Services $212,221.
- Erie Protection From Abuse Coordinated Services $150,066.
- Erie Safenet: Domestic Violence Safety Network, Project Protect $101,622.
- Erie Children's Advocacy Center of Erie County $1,881.
“Crime has long-lasting effects, in our community and for the survivors who live through it,” said state Rep. Pat Harkins, who represents portions of the city of Erie and Lake Erie and Lawrence Park townships. “This funding will help ensure when crime happens, survivors and their families have trusted and safe places to turn to receive the services they need – not just to survive but remain strong and productive role models in our community.”
A study released in June revealed a sharp decline in crime nationwide, however, it was merely a preliminary report before final statistics are tabulated.
“The wide-ranging ramifications of a violent crime last long after the investigation, trial and conviction,” said state Rep. Bob Merski, who represents Greene, Harborcreek and Summit townships as well as the borough of Wesleyville and a portion of the city of Erie. “These grants help victims, survivors and their families move forward, ensuring the people who need help receive the support and services to take the next step in their lives.”