SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) has announced the issuance of the second round of firearm enforcement grants to law enforcement agencies across the state. The grants aim to support enforcement operations targeting individuals whose Firearm Owner’s Identification Cards (FOID) have been revoked or suspended but have failed to comply with the Firearms Owners Identification Card Act. This round of enforcement will focus on individuals who have become the subject of a Firearm Restraining Order or Clear and Present Danger, or those who have received a criminal conviction.
The grants for Fiscal Year 2024 have been awarded to several law enforcement agencies in different cities across the state. The Aurora Police Department will receive $37,501, while the Broadview Police Department and the DeKalb Police Department will receive $11,859 and $15,870 respectively. Other agencies such as the Chicago Police Department and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office will receive substantial amounts of $402,026 and $333,293, respectively.
Law enforcement agencies that are members of the Violent Crime Intelligence Task Force are eligible to receive grants from the State Police Revocation Enforcement Fund. The funds will aid these agencies in conducting firearms enforcement operations and ensuring that firearms are surrendered either to individuals with eligible FOID cards or to law enforcement.
The funding for these enforcement grants is derived from the State Police Revocation Enforcement Fund and was made possible through Public Act 102-0237. The General Assembly has allocated $1 million each for Fiscal Year 23 and Fiscal Year 24 grants. The exact total amount utilized by the 30 law enforcement grantees in the first round of grants for Fiscal Year 2023 is currently being finalized and will be disclosed in the near future.
These grants serve as a crucial support mechanism for law enforcement agencies to effectively enforce firearm laws and protect public safety. By targeting individuals who possess revoked or suspended FOID cards, authorities aim to reduce the risk posed by unauthorized individuals in possession of firearms. The enforcement operations will contribute to ensuring that firearms are in the hands of responsible and eligible owners or safely confiscated by law enforcement.
Law enforcement agencies receiving these grants will be able to bolster their efforts in combating firearm-related crimes and maintaining public safety. The grants also demonstrate the commitment of the Illinois State Police and the state legislature to proactive measures that help reduce the potential for gun violence and protect communities throughout the state.
