Dayton, Ohio – In a move aimed at improving safety in communities across the state, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has announced that over $3 million in grant funding will be distributed to local law enforcement agencies to support strategies that reduce violent crime. This funding, part of the Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program, marks the 14th round of support since the initiative began in 2021.
“The crime reduction strategies funded by this latest round of grants are all focused on protecting residents and making communities safer,” said Governor DeWine. “We’re proud to support the work of our local law enforcement agencies to use technology and other innovative practices to enhance public safety.”
Lt. Governor Jim Tressel emphasized the broader benefit of these efforts, stating, “By supporting local law enforcement with assistance from new technology and equipment, at the same time we also help our communities to be safer places to live, work, and raise a family.”
Since its inception, the grant program has awarded over $84 million to nearly 200 agencies, providing support for crime-solving technology, targeted patrols, and additional investigative resources.
Community Programs Get Technology and Tactical Support
This round of funding will help 48 law enforcement agencies in 27 counties pay for overtime during investigations, launch new programs, and invest in tools designed to prevent violent crime.
The Solon Police Department in Cuyahoga County will receive $68,830.20 to launch Operation Gambit, a human trafficking initiative focused on dismantling trafficking networks, digital forensics, trauma-informed care, and public outreach. The grant also covers overtime and the expansion of lab capabilities to handle data from mobile devices.
The Garfield Heights Police Department, also in Cuyahoga County, will receive $450,000 to implement a Drone as First Responder program. The city will use drones to respond to calls for service, with the drones relaying live video feeds back to dispatchers, who will decide what resources are needed.
Dozens of other law enforcement offices will receive funds to aid their local crime-fighting missions. Among the grants awarded:
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Elyria Police Department: $65,000
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Dayton Police Department: $400,000
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Akron Police Department: $170,950.01
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Canton Police Department: $100,000
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Mansfield Division of Police: $141,424.50
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Rocky River Police Department: $241,939
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Euclid Police Department: $148,166.88
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North Olmsted Police Department: $143,604.40
Additional recipients include sheriff’s offices, township police, and smaller municipal departments, with individual grants ranging from $8,500 to nearly $70,000. The funds will help pay for equipment, patrols in high-crime areas, and improved communication systems.
Long-Term Efforts to Improve Safety Statewide
The Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program is one of several safety initiatives launched under Governor DeWine’s leadership. Other programs include the Ohio Narcotics Intelligence Center, Ohio Office of Law Enforcement Recruitment, and the Ohio Office of First Responder Wellness. These efforts are meant to provide statewide support in areas such as digital evidence processing, officer wellness, extradition reimbursements, school safety, and crime lab efficiency.
Other tools launched in recent years include the Ohio eWarrant database and the Ohio Body-Worn Camera Program.
With continued investment, the state hopes to not only prevent crime but also strengthen communities through long-term safety strategies and innovation in policing.
“Every dollar spent through these grants is a dollar invested in safer communities for Ohio’s families,” Governor DeWine emphasized.
The funds for this round come from Ohio’s 2024–2025 operating budget and reinforce the state’s ongoing commitment to backing law enforcement with both resources and trust.
