Tribes share $130M in federal grant funds for public safety

FOUNTAIN HILLS, Ariz. (AP) - More than $130 million in federal grants is going to tribes to improve public safety and support youth programs.

The U.S. Justice Department announced the funding Tuesday on the Fort McDowell reservation. Associate Attorney General Rachel Brand is there for a meeting with tribes on violence against women.

Officials say the funding will help deliver culturally appropriate services to a population that too often becomes the victim of violence.

The 226 grants awarded to tribes across the country will address sexual assault, community policing, domestic violence and sex trafficking. They also will expand community policing, among other things.

Brand says supporting tribal partners remains a vital part of the department’s mission.