FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 17, 2002

CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8755

HODGES ANNOUNCES GRANTS TO ASSIST JUVENILE JUSTICE

PROGRAMS STATEWIDE

COLUMBIA – Gov. Jim Hodges has announced grants to help promote greater accountability in the juvenile justice system. These grants will support efforts to deal with juvenile offenders and the effects they have on our communities. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety’s Office of Justice Programs will administer the grants on behalf of the Governor's Office.

The Governor's Juvenile Justice Advisory Council played an instrumental role in the decision to fund these grants. The Advisory Council consists of state and local officials as well as private citizens. One of the Council's chief responsibilities is to recommend ways to improve juvenile justice services in South Carolina.

The grants will fund programs such as a school resource officer, enhancement of a juvenile drug court, and a truancy prevention program for elementary school children. The awards represent a portion of awards totaling $3,399,100 from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. The following received grants:

Aiken County                                                                                                                       $78,462

            Aiken Juvenile Drug Court

City of Chester                                                                                                                       29,585

            School Resource Officer Program

South Carolina Department of Education                                                                                 45,000  

            Having Opportunities Present Everyday (HOPE)                                                                   

-- 30 --