IMPD hoping grant money helps take a bite out of crime

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Grant money will help put more IMPD officers on the street.

The money is coming from Community Oriented Policing Services.

$1.875 million would cover benefits and salaries of 15 officers for three years. IMPD Police Chief Rick Hite says the city will keep the officers on after three years and absorb the cost.

More than $250,000 is being allocated to Project Safe Neighborhoods, which is an anti-gun and gang initiative.

$250,000 will be used for a criminal justice and mental health collaboration. This money is designated to help some offenders receive mental health treatment in addition to jail time.

A little more than $150,000 will go to fight crime in hot spot areas.