The Cowlitz Indian Tribal Public Safety Department was one of 12 law enforcement agencies across Washington awarded funding for gun-violence prevention efforts, state Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Thursday. Of the $2 million awarded, the Cowlitz tribe received $106,500.
Agencies receiving funding include local police departments, tribal law enforcement and sheriff’s offices in nine counties on both sides of the Cascades. The departments will use the funds for efforts including gun buyback programs, youth outreach, education and firearms safety classes. The funds will also help departments purchase locking safes and other safety equipment for gun storage.
“We are investing this money in communities to help law enforcement prevent gun violence,” Ferguson said in a press release. “Their efforts will improve public safety across Washington.”
The largest award, more than $545,000, went to the Airway Heights Police Department to fund a support program for victims of gun violence.
