FEDERAL GRANT TO EQUIP STATE PROBATION/PAROLE OFFICERS WITH DIGITAL RADIOS

(Concord, NH) New Hampshire Department of Corrections Division of Field Services Director Larry Blaisdell announced the receipt of a federal grant to allow for more technological efficiency. A $300,000 federal grant was awarded to the division to obtain and issue 85 portable digital radios and install 28 digital mobile radios into official DOC Field Services and Community Corrections state vehicles.

Director Blaisdell stated, "New Hampshire law enforcement agencies are switching more to digital radios and we have to keep up with these technological advances. We need to communicate regularly with other law enforcement agencies as part of the job. This federal grant will help us do just that."

"Our Probation/Parole Officers spend many hours in their vehicles especially when they conduct offender home visits. These radios would promote efficiency and staff safety," Director Blaisdell added.

Director Blaisdell wanted to thank New Hampshire U.S. Senator Judd Gregg and First District Executive Councilor Raymond S. Burton for being instrumental in assisting the department's efforts to acquire these radios.