U.S. Rep. Dave Loebsack, D-Iowa, announced July 13 that Iowa City, Keokuk, and Muscatine will receive grant funds through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Grant Program.

The grant is the only source of federal funding for multi-jurisidictional drug task forces for drug-related and violent crime prevention and prosecution, according to the press release from Loebsack’s office.

"I have met with law enforcement officers in Iowa City, Keokuk, and Muscatine many times, and have always been impressed with their dedication to protecting our communities and keeping our streets drug-free," Loebsack said in the press release. "I have long been a supporter of Byrne Justice Grant Program because it supports law-enforcement agencies in their efforts to keep Iowa families safe. I will continue to fight to ensure that Iowa’s law-enforcement officers are well-equipped to safely serve our communities."

Iowa City was awarded $32,164 to purchase range equipment to be used at the Cedar Rapids Regional Law Enforcement Range. Iowa City police and the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office jointly applied for the grant.

The Daily Iowan previously reported that Iowa City will receive $16,726 and Johnson County will receive $15,438 of the grant.

Keokuk officials received $17,154, and Muscatine officials received $17,109.

—By Kristen East