Selma receives $1 million emergency grant to target gangs

SELMA, Ala. (AP) - The federal government is giving the city of Selma a $1 million emergency grant to combat violent crimes and gangs.

The Montgomery Advertiser reports the grant is expected to last 18 months. It’s supposed to cover police equipment and overtime costs associated with increased patrolling.

U.S. Attorney Richard Moore announced the grant at a press conference Tuesday alongside community members affected by gang violence. He says the initiative is aimed at removing what he calls “trigger-pullers” from the streets.

The grant will also fund mental health support, addiction treatment and neighborhood restoration.

Selma has one of the highest rates of violent crimes per capita in the nation. Federal authorities last year indicted 18 members of a Selma-based gang on weapons and drug charges.