Rep. Henry Cuellar announced today that the Zapata Sheriff’s Office has received funding through the Commercial Equipment Direct Assistance Program (CEDAP) made possible by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The Zapata Sheriff’s Office is one of 366 recipients for the TacSight SE35 Advanced Thermal Imager for Law Enforcement equipment, granted in the amount of $11,794.

“The rural communities in Zapata will benefit greatly from these funds. I am pleased to see that this specialized commercial equipment will strengthen the daily operations of Zapata’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 Zapata Sheriff’s Office t will receive the TacSight SE35 Advanced Thermal Imager 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.

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.

“I thank Sheriff Gonzalez and his deputies for taking the necessary steps that aim to secure our communities,” Cuellar said.

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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