Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced the awarding of a $5,500 grant to benefit the Zapata County Sheriff’s Department.  Funded by the Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP), the money will be used to purchase an Optim Freedomview Fiber Optic Scope Kit.

The Optim Freedomview Fiber Optic Scope Kit will be used for search and rescue, hidden compartment searches and pre-entry  intelligence.  With the scope, officers will be better able to search for contraband and be prepared to handle rescue operations in tight spaces.

“As a member of the Homeland Security Committee and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness and Response, I am proud to have helped to obtain funds to Webb County secure.  Not only will my constituents be helped, but the Sheriff’s Department will become more effective as a result of this grant,” said Congressman Cuellar.

CEDAP provides smaller communities and rural areas with technology and equipment assistance in order to enhance first responder capabilities throughout the nation.  Additionally, CEDAP works with these communities to adequately train personnel and supply ongoing technical support.

“Congressman Cuellar always keeps in mind all of his constituents and agencies.  The people of Zapata County have benefited tremendously from the assistance of Congressman Cuellar,” said Sheriff Sigifredo Gonzalez, Jr..

“As a Member of Congress, my priority is to better the lives of my constituents and facilitate progress in our communities.  I will continue to work closely with our local officials to bring federal aid to Texas’s 28th district,” said Congressman Cuellar.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development, and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.
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