In a recent government meeting, the police department announced a significant achievement in securing a domestic violence grant worth $463,811, one of only ten awarded nationwide. Lieutenant Blauer highlighted the importance of this funding, which will support a dedicated officer to advocate for domestic violence victims, providing them with essential services and guidance throughout the legal process.

The grant will cover the officer's salary and benefits for three years, along with training, travel, and equipment upgrades to enhance investigative capabilities. This initiative aims to improve the prosecution of domestic violence cases by ensuring that evidence is thoroughly collected and presented to the prosecuting attorney's office.

Additionally, the grant includes funding for local partner organizations that provide housing resources for victims, ensuring they have safe havens during their recovery. Each partner organization will receive $20,000 annually through this collaboration.

The meeting also addressed a request to promote Officer Cassandra Breidenstine from a uniform patrol role to a plainclothes detective position. This transition is intended to enhance her effectiveness in handling domestic violence cases, as she will dedicate 80% of her time to the initiative while also assisting with other investigations. The change will also adjust her work schedule to align with other detectives, reducing her hours from 84 to 40 biweekly.

The council expressed gratitude for the hard work that led to the grant's acquisition and unanimously approved the motions related to the grant and Officer Breidenstine's promotion.