Rep. Henry Cuellar announced today that the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Department has received funding through the Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP) made possible by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office is one of 32 recipients for the StarWitness Video Pro Image Processing equipment, granted in the amount of $26,900.

“The rural communities in Guadalupe County will benefit greatly from these funds. I am pleased to see that this specialized commercial equipment will strengthen the daily operations of Guadalupe County’s law enforcement agencies," said Congressman Cuellar. “As Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response, I understand the need for technology in protecting our communities, especially rural regions. I will continue working hard to ensure that our first responders are well protected.”

The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office will receive the StarWitness Video Pro Imaging Processing to enhance thermal imaging, night vision, and video surveillance equipment. Of the 3,709 CEDAP applications submitted this year, only 1,853 were accepted based on law enforcement agencies who demonstrated the need to improve their capability and capacity to respond to a major critical incident.

Guadalupe County Grants Writer Thomas Bealley emphasized the county’s need for this equipment.

“This equipment will enhance the footage we capture on video tapes for business and civilian surveillance. Because we utilize video tapes that are reused over the years, it is imperative to upgrade the quality of footage in order to better identify people committing a crime. With this technology, numerous cases can now be solved,” said Bealley.

With the technological equipment, training is also provided in accordance with the Homeland Security Strategy. State Administrative Agencies (SAA) provide training at the time technologies are delivered and transferred under the program. The training is a prerequisite to receipt of equipment and helps ensure that the systems and devices awarded will be utilized fully and correctly.

The Department of Homeland Security’s Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program is an important component of the Administration’s larger, coordinated effort to strengthen the nation’s overall level of preparedness. Congressman Cuellar is proud to serve on the Homeland Security committee to play a role in obtaining grants for the 28th District of Texas.

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 Senior Whip.

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