WASHINGTON – Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) announced the approval of nearly $870,000 in funding to help the Alabama District Attorneys Association use cutting-edge technology to combat crime.
The funding is included in the Fiscal Year 2008 federal budget approved by the House today.
A data security initiative that will give prosecutors across the state a secure way to exchange and store electronic information on ongoing investigations received $117,500.
"Sensitive information on criminal cases needs to be protected. This project will help to safeguard data and promote efficient communication among law enforcement agencies," Bachus said.
The legislation also provides $752,000 in support for regional criminal forensics laboratories to investigate computer-related crime and provide technology training for law enforcement officials.
"As a result of this work, criminal investigators, prosecutors, and judges will be better equipped to successfully combat and prosecute computer-based crimes," said Bachus.
Congressman Bachus has worked closely with the Alabama District Attorneys Association, under the leadership of Randy Hillman, on several projects including the location of the National Computer Forensics Institute in Hoover.
The budget legislation has been passed by both houses of Congress and awaits the signature of the President.