Local Agencies Receive Grant For Improved Discovery Practices

According to the Broome County District Attorney's Office, a $1.1 million dollar grant has been secured through the New York State Department of Criminal Justice.

This fund is designed to help strengthen discovery reform efforts within Broome Counties local law enforcement agencies. This grant will enhance capabilities in meeting the evolving demands and timeframes of discovery laws.

The recent overhaul of discovery laws in New York means a significant shift in procedure, emphasizing the need for essential funding within our criminal justice system. -Broome County District Attorney Battisti

With this grant, local agencies will be able to enhance training and staff resources focused on streamlining the discovery process including the collection and sharing of evidence in criminal cases.

The Broome County District Attorney's Office notes the money allocation will be distributed as follows:

Binghamton Police Department $82,000
Port Dickinson Police Department $23,000
Endicott Police Department $82,000
Vestal Police Department $79,000
Broome County Sheriff's Office $73,000
Broome County Office of Emergency Service $54,000

The remainder of the grant money will be distributed to the Broome County Public Defender’s Office and the Broome County District Attorney's Office to fund discovery technicians, electronic storage for discovery and pre-trial services.

Get our free mobile app

The Broome County District Attorney's Office further notes that this grant will equip area law enforcement agencies with support to handle discovery law reforms crucial in effective case prosecution, and to help eliminate trivial dismissals.