BAY MINETTE, Ala. – The Baldwin County District Attorney’s Office has been awarded a federal Department of Justice grant to improve technology.

“A large federal grant awarded to the office a number of years ago bought most of the equipment still in use in our office today,” according to District

Attorney Hallie Dixon. “Unfortunately, some of the computers and software are now obsolete. We are taking steps to upgrade technology throughout the office as funding becomes available, prioritizing equipment and software purchases that will have maximum impact on investigating crimes, serving victims and witnesses, and obtaining successful prosecutions, while making the best use of existing resources.”

Dixon said the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant of $14,197 will be used to upgrade technology in order to enhance courtroom presentations by prosecutors, develop and present community prevention-education programs, field-process suspect computers for forensic evidence, and conserve resources by purchasing docking stations to utilize existing newer laptops and retiring the most outdated desktop computers.

The system also will provide updated digital recorders to provide downloadable interviews with suspects, witnesses and victims

“This is a one-time grant that traditionally is used for law enforcement equipment purchases,” Dixon said.  “We continue to apply for more substantial, longer-term grants to support our personnel costs.