The Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has allocated $89,141 in grant funding to law enforcement agencies statewide, aiming to enhance search-and-rescue capabilities for vulnerable individuals who wander. Among the recipients, the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) received $17,775 to bolster its resources.
Grant Focused on Community Safety
The “Persons Who Wander” grant, established by Colorado lawmakers in 2022, is specifically designed to support law enforcement agencies in locating missing individuals, particularly those at higher risk of wandering, such as people with dementia, autism, or other cognitive challenges.
Chris Schaefer, Director of the CBI, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “The Persons Who Wander grant program is critical in supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts to keep our communities safe. These grants will provide them with the resources they need to quickly locate missing persons, especially those who may be vulnerable and prone to wandering.”
Mesa County’s Plans for the Funding
The MCSO intends to use the $17,775 grant for a range of tools and initiatives. The funding will cover:
- AngelSense fobs and watches: GPS-enabled devices designed to track and locate individuals who may wander.
- Program literature: Educational materials to inform the community and caregivers about available resources.
These resources aim to bridge the gap between prevention and swift recovery in cases of missing persons, focusing on proactive solutions.
Other Agencies Receiving Support
Mesa County isn’t the only area benefiting from the grant. Eight other law enforcement agencies across Colorado also received funding:
Agency | Grant Amount |
---|---|
Louisville Police Department | $10,000 |
Prowers County Sheriff’s Office | $10,000 |
Pagosa Springs Police Department | $13,678 |
Cortez Police Department | $12,265 |
Routt County Sheriff’s Office | $9,000 |
Washington County Sheriff’s Office | $8,000 |
City of Aurora | $4,534 |
Elbert County | $3,889 |
These grants will also fund equipment like drones, GPS devices, and other search-and-rescue tools to assist agencies in responding to emergencies efficiently.
Community Impact
For families and caregivers of vulnerable individuals, programs like this offer reassurance and essential resources. GPS devices like AngelSense not only enhance the ability to locate someone quickly but also provide families with peace of mind, knowing that additional layers of support are in place.
The Mesa County Sheriff’s Office, along with other grant recipients, now has the opportunity to strengthen its ability to serve the community effectively. By leveraging technology and targeted programs, agencies can focus on the safety and well-being of those most at risk.