Dayton, Ohio – Ohio officials have announced a major new round of funding aimed at tackling violent crime across the state, directing millions of dollars toward local law enforcement agencies and public safety initiatives. Governor Mike DeWine, alongside Ohio Department of Public Safety Director Andy Wilson, revealed that 44 agencies across 28 counties will share in $3.4 million through the latest round of the Ohio Violent Crime Reduction Grant Program.
This marks the 15th round of funding since the program began in 2021, and the numbers show the scale of the effort. Over $87 million has already been distributed to more than 200 law enforcement agencies statewide. The funding has supported a wide range of efforts, including investigative overtime, new crime-fighting technology, targeted patrols in high-crime areas, and other strategies designed to reduce violence and improve safety.
“There is no shortage of innovative ideas that our local law enforcement agencies are using to combat violent crime in their communities,” said Governor DeWine. “Their work to implement crime-fighting technology and tactics is making Ohio safer.”
Funding targets domestic violence and community safety efforts
A portion of the funding will be used to expand specialized programs that address specific forms of crime. One example is the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office, which will receive $116,132.64. The funding will allow the office to hire two detectives to join a team that already includes an assistant prosecutor, a data analyst, and a victim advocate. This group will focus on building domestic violence units, carrying out lethality assessments, and improving how protection orders are handled and enforced.
The goal behind these efforts is to reduce repeat incidents of domestic violence by strengthening both prevention and response. Training staff in better interviewing techniques and ensuring proper enforcement of protection orders are also key parts of the plan.
Another targeted effort is in Cuyahoga County, where the North Olmsted Police Department will receive $76,500. This funding will support continued crime prevention work near the Great Northern Mall. Plans include assigning a dedicated officer to focus on outreach, community education, and stronger partnerships between police and residents. The department will also use advanced tools and equipment to improve its ability to respond to crime.
Widespread support across Ohio communities
Beyond these focused initiatives, dozens of other agencies will receive funding to support ongoing public safety work. Larger cities such as Dayton, which will receive $160,000, and Cleveland, which will receive $80,000, are among the recipients. Akron will receive $90,000, while Toledo is set to receive $77,000. Smaller communities and county sheriff’s offices are also included, ensuring that both urban and rural areas benefit from the program.
Some of the highest individual awards include $297,500 for the Mahoning County Sheriff’s Office and $200,833.92 for the Huron County Sheriff’s Office. The Ohio Attorney General’s Office will also receive $250,000 to support broader efforts tied to violent crime prevention and investigation.
Other recipients range from police departments in places like Mansfield, Warren, and Springfield to sheriff’s offices in counties such as Portage, Ross, and Stark. Even smaller allocations, such as $9,388.47 for the Tuscarawas County Sheriff’s Office, reflect an effort to ensure no area is left out.
The funding comes from the state’s 2026-2027 operating budget, highlighting the long-term commitment to reducing violent crime through consistent investment.
As this latest round of grants is distributed, state leaders are emphasizing that success depends on both innovation and cooperation. By supporting local agencies with resources and flexibility, Ohio aims to continue building safer communities while adapting to the changing nature of crime across the state.
