Border counties boosted by grant

Law enforcement agencies across the north country are getting pots of money to expand their efforts to protect New York's international border with Canada.

The state has received more than $3.5 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to be spent on local law enforcement, as part of an ongoing effort to enhance cooperation between local and national agencies. The grants are part of Operation Stonegarden, an initiative begun in 2006 to "enhance cooperation and coordination between federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies," according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Through the grant, Jefferson County was awarded almost $300,000, St. Lawrence County got just over $500,000 and the St. Regis Mohawk tribe received $260,000.

"There's a better work relationship between local police and the border patrol" now, Jefferson County Undersheriff Timothy M. Dowe said. "They have had some seizures, they have had some success. Without hiring extra people, they can put extra bodies on patrol."

Across the state, 12 counties and the St. Regis Mohawk tribe were given grant money.

The money will primarily be used for equipment and overtime pay, according to Amy Bonanno, spokeswoman for the state Office of Homeland Security. The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department will use about half of its funds on overtime, and the rest to buy things such as night vision goggles, snowmobiles, radios and uniforms, Mr. Dowe said.

"It increases our capability to protect and respond to border issues," said Mark Henry, an operations officer with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. "The key is working together and we get a lot of cooperation from local law enforcement."

OPERATION STONEGARDEN GRANT AWARDS

12 counties and one tribe were awarded a total of $3,558,187 in grants from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to improve coordination and cooperation between local and federal law enforcement agencies.

■ Jefferson County: $283,982

/ St. Lawrence County: $509,658

/ St. Regis Mohawk tribe: $264,788

/ Franklin County: $500,218

/ Clinton County: $510,309

/ Oswego County: $156,637

/ Erie County: $283,982

/ Niagara County: $277,472

/ Cayuga County: $157,613

■ Monroe County: $156,311

/ Orleans County: $154,033

/ Wayne County: $152,080

/ Chautauqua County: $151,104