The Billings Police Department has been offered a sub-grant for Domestic Violence (DV) training and continuation of the "Domestic Violence Investigator" program for the 19th year.  The amount for this grant totals $27,331.  This grant provides funding for overtime, training, and supplies related to fulfilling the need for intense investigation of domestic violence cases. 

The domestic violence investigator, prosecutor, and victim-witness specialist plan to attend a national conference to stay current on investigative techniques involving domestic violence issues.  The grant also funds the DV Investigator's JustWare license and cell phone plan, as well as other supplies and training needed.

City Council may:

• Approve the Domestic Violence Grant Award in the Amount of $27,331, or;
• Disapprove the Domestic Violence Grant Award, which would reduce specialized warrant round-ups and overtime work for police officers investigating these crimes.

The Billings Police Department has one officer assigned as the Domestic Violence Investigator.  These grant funds will finance the additional supporting costs for training and overtime as well as some supplies.

Staff recommends that the City Council accept the 2020 Domestic Violence Grant in the amount of $27,331 and authorize the Chief to sign all required grant material.