The Cambridge Police Department (CPD) has been awarded $99,735 from the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy through the federal Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant program.
The funding will support the growth of CPD’s Safety Through Technology, Education, and Partnerships (STEP) program, a multi-faceted approach to reducing violent crime and strengthening community relationships in Cambridge.
Key components of the expanded STEP initiative include:
- Purchase, installation, and maintenance of automated license plate readers and surveillance cameras in identified violent-crime hotspots
- Specialized training for officers on the lawful, ethical, and transparent use of technology
- Directed overtime patrols in high-crime neighborhoods to increase police presence and rapid response capability
- Enhanced youth mentorship and recreational programming in partnership with New Beginnings Youth and Family Services, with a focus on leadership development, conflict resolution, and positive decision-making
“CPD is deeply grateful to the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy for this significant investment in public safety,” said Cambridge Chief of Police Justin Todd. “This grant reaffirms the State’s confidence in our community-oriented, data-driven approach and will allow us to protect our residents further while building lasting trust between officers and the people we serve.”
The STEP program combines proven policing strategies with targeted youth intervention and community partnerships to address the root causes of violence and create safer neighborhoods for all Cambridge residents.
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