Crist secures $7 million to address increased crime, mental health needs in Florida

Congressman Charlie Crist announced the U.S. DOJ will award nine grants totaling $7,432,202 to statewide and local agencies. The funds will help address rising crime and mental health needs across Florida, and within Pinellas County.

Over $4 million worth of grants will go the FDLE for forensic DNA analysis and backlog reduction.
Pinellas County will receive over $1 million for the county’s forensic laboratory and to create a Mental Health Court.

Another $1 million will be distributed throughout the state to bolster Florida’s Project Safe Neighborhoods. Nearly $900,000 will go to Goodwill Industries-Suncoast for returning citizen job training.

– Kelly Hayes, Florida Politics