Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded $72,000 in grants to help three police departments in central Alabama purchase new equipment and upgrades.

Pell City will use $24,000 grants to make the purchases.

“With access to up-to-date equipment, officers can perform the often-challenging job of law enforcement and protecting residents more effectively,” Ivey said. “I am pleased to assist these cities and police departments in their efforts to serve their communities.”

Pell City will purchase equipment for a new case management system that enables the Police Department to track crime reporting and share evidence and intelligence with other law enforcement agencies. Funds also will be used for technical support for the system.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Justice. ADECA manages a wide range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, infrastructure upgrades, recreation, energy conservation, water resources management and career development.