Stearns County and St. Cloud Police Invited to Apply for Federal Public Safety Grant

(KNSI) — The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office and the St. Cloud Police Department could share in nearly $35,000 in federal grant money.

The agencies have been invited to apply for a 2026 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant, which would be split between the two.

According to a press release, the sheriff’s office wants to use its share of the grant money to buy three items.

For its investigators, it wants a charging station that can hold and power several electronic devices at once, along with a locked signal-blocking storage cabinet. Investigators would use them to store, charge, and examine phones, tablets, and computers collected as evidence.

For patrol deputies, it wants 26 handheld preliminary breath testers. Deputies would use them during DWI stops and other alcohol-related cases to check whether a driver has been drinking.

The St. Cloud Police Department would use its portion to buy seven handgun shields. The shields would be used in active threat responses and in other situations where first responders need additional protection.

The public is invited to weigh in on the plans. Comments and suggestions can be sent to Sheriff-Administration@stearnscountymn.gov

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