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County Executive's Office

County Executive Melissa Agard Announces Acceptance of State Grant to Support Gun Violence Victims and Strengthen Community Safety

December 15, 2025
execmedia@danecounty.gov, 608-800-1127
County Executive

DANE COUNTY - Dane County Executive Melissa Agard today announced that Dane County will receive $100,000 from the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Byrne Statewide Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP) to expand services for victims of gun violence and support community-driven violence prevention efforts.

The grant, awarded through the Wisconsin Department of Justice and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, will fund a collaborative initiative between the Dane County District Attorney’s Office, Focused Interruption, and Public Health Madison & Dane County’s Violence Intervention Team. Together, these partners will provide immediate crisis assistance and long-term support to individuals and families affected by gun violence.

“This funding strengthens our commitment to a safer, healthier Dane County,” said County Executive Agard. “Gun violence leaves deep and lasting harm. By working hand-in-hand with community partners who know this work best, we can better support victims in moments of crisis, help families stabilize, and invest in strategies that reduce violence before it occurs. I’m grateful to the Wisconsin Department of Justice for recognizing the importance of this work and supporting our community-based approach.”

The SCIP grant will help expand outreach and direct services for gun violence victims, including:

  • Emergency relocation for individuals facing immediate safety risks
  • Mental health support to help victims and families heal from trauma
  • Emergency lodging and other crisis stabilization services
  • Community-centered violence prevention, led jointly by system and nonprofit partners

The Dane County District Attorney’s Office will administer the funding through its Crime Response Program (DACRIME), with the grant period running from January 1, 2026 through September 30, 2026. Any unspent funds will carry forward until fully utilized.

“Focused Interruption and our Violence Intervention Team are essential voices in Dane County’s efforts to prevent violence and meet people where they are,” Agard said. “This partnership reflects our shared belief that safety grows from trust, support, and sustained engagement.”