The Hampton Police Division announced on March 30 that it plans to apply for the Fiscal Year 2025 Justice Assistance Grant, requesting $46,962 to purchase ten ballistic shields and six laptop computers with accessories. The division said these items will help protect officers and citizens of Hampton.
The proposed equipment aims to enhance safety during high-risk operations and improve investigative work. Ballistic shields are intended to safeguard law enforcement from gunfire, weapons, and thrown objects, especially during active shooter incidents or rescues involving injured individuals. The division noted that the new purchase would allow them to retire older shields that have expired.
Laptop computers are needed by the Major Crimes Unit as current devices near the end of their five-year lifecycle. The division stated that replacing these laptops will support detectives in field investigations related to violent crime and boost operational efficiency.
Public comments regarding this grant proposal will be accepted until May 1, 2026. Comments can be directed to Dr. Stephanie Dragon at 757-727-6478.
Hampton has a long history tied to figures such as the original Mercury 7 astronauts who trained at NASA Langley Research Center and educational pioneers like Benjamin Syms, according to the official history page. The city has played a role in American history through its contributions in education, ending slavery, and technological innovation while serving as a diverse community with many cultural attractions according to its official history page.
Notable sites in Hampton include the Virginia Air and Space Center, Hampton History Museum, and Fort Monroe National Monument—locations that highlight its historical significance according to the official website. The city is recognized nationally for being one of America’s best places to live with a low crime rate and advancements in technology according to its official website.
City officials focus on economic growth, public safety initiatives like this grant application, education efforts, and resilience by working closely with residents and organizations according to the official website. Hampton operates under a council-manager form of government where policy direction comes from an elected City Council while daily management is handled by an appointed city manager as outlined on its official site.
