Bureau of Justice Assistance

The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) provides leadership and assistance to local criminal justice programs that improve and reinforce the nation’s criminal justice system. BJA’s goals are to reduce and prevent crime, violence, and drug abuse and to improve the way in which the criminal justice system functions. In order to achieve such goals, BJA programs illustrate the coordination and cooperation of local, state, and federal governments. BJA works closely with programs that bolster law enforcement operations, expand drug courts, and provide benefits to safety officers.

BJA is comprised of three key areas: Policy, Programs, and Planning.

• The Policy Office acts as a national leader for criminal justice policy, training, and technical assistance to advance the direction of justice. It also acts as a connecting point with national organizations to set policy and help broadcast information on the best practices.
• The Programs Office organizes and manages all state and local grant programs. It functions as a direct line of communication to states, territories, and tribal governments because the office is responsible for providing assistance and coordinating resources.
• The Planning Office is responsible for providing overall BJA-wide coordination. It handles planning, communications, and budget formulation and execution.

Contacts

BJA Main Line: 202-616-6500
BJA E-mail: AskBJA