WNEM: Federal funding requested for mid-Michigan police departments

MID-MICHIGAN (WNEM) – Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet has requested new federal funding for local law enforcement.

“This technology and equipment will keep citizens safe and those that come to work, play, and worship in Saginaw,” said Saginaw Deputy Police Chief Matthew Gerow.

McDonald Rivet was joined by Gerow on Monday, May 12, for National Police Week.

McDonald Rivet said the funding she’s requested would benefit the Saginaw and Flushing police departments, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, and state police.

Departments would use the funding for a variety of improvements and upgrades, including replacing outdated equipment, buying new safety equipment like bulletproof vests, and purchasing new or upgrading patrol cars.

“Our brave men and women in uniform put their lives on the line to protect and serve our community. I’m very proud to stand with them today and, like I have my entire career, I’m going to fight to make sure they have the tools they need to succeed,” McDonald Rivet said.

In addition, McDonald Rivet said she’s fighting to advance legislation in D.C. to support law enforcement in other ways, including helping smaller police departments recruit and retain officers and helping officers access home ownership opportunities, get treatment for service-related injuries, cancers, and more.