Three area sheriffs receive OK grants

NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA — Three area sheriff's departments were awarded $700,000 through a new program to enhance law enforcement services.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s office awarded the Delaware County Sheriff's Office $300,000, the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office $250,000, and the Craig County Sheriff's Office $150,000.

“These grants will help strengthen public safety for all Oklahomans,” Drummond said. “I appreciate the work of the Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association and sheriff offices to ensure that every county has extra support this year.”

Drummond said funds would be used for sheriff's office operations, including training, technology, equipment, capital improvements, and stipends.

"We are giving stipends and buying different equipment, including body cams," said David Dean, Ottawa County sheriff.

Heath Winfrey, Craig County sheriff, said grant funds would go toward stipends for his staff.

Josh Bynum, Delaware County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer, said the department evaluates its needs before deciding what the funds will be used for.

Grant funding totaling $18 million was distributed to all 77 counties based on their total tangible property valuation. It was established by House Bill 2914 to provide support for every county sheriff’s office in Oklahoma through a new program created by the state Legislature this year to enhance law enforcement services.