WEST CHESTER, PA — Chester County has been awarded $477,256 in state funding to support a new violence intervention and prevention initiative aimed at addressing firearm-related incidents, state Rep. Chris Pielli said.
The funding will be used to launch a countywide program involving the Chester County Detectives and the Adult Probation, Parole and Pretrial Services Department, according to Pielli.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the county’s ability to prevent, investigate and respond to gun-related violence.
The funding was provided through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency’s School Safety and Security Committee, which administers grants to address community violence across the state.
Pielli said the funding will support training and resources for law enforcement and probation officers.
“This grant will give our first responders the tools and training they need to protect and serve the community,” Pielli said.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe said the program is intended to reduce violence by identifying individuals at risk and intervening earlier.
“This grant funding allows law enforcement to stop cycles of violence before they start,” he said.
Officials said the program will focus on coordination between law enforcement and probation services to address potential threats and improve public safety.
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