Rep. Henry Cuellar announced today that the Webb 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 Webb County Sheriff’s Department is one of 86 recipients in the nation for the Detection/Deterrence Search and Surveillance System equipment, granted in the amount of $8,499.

“The rural communities throughout Webb County will benefit greatly from these funds. I am pleased to see that this specialized commercial equipment will strengthen the daily operations of Webb County Sheriff’s Office," 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 Webb County Sheriff’s Department will receive the Detection/Deterrence Search and Surveillance System to deter and detect criminal activity before an incident occurs. The S&S System will strengthen detection and response through its search and surveillance features, including its mobility, its ruggedness, its submersibility, its covert illumination feature, and audio listening features.

The equipment will also be used for daily all-hazards operations, such as preparations for and response to disasters caused by flood, storm or other natural causes. It will also be utilized in the interdiction of illegal narcotics, human trafficking, & other illicit cargo trafficking.

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.
 
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 as he plays an instrumental 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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