U.S. grants funds to fight drugs and domestic violence

U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs William R. Brownfield arrived in Costa Rica this week to confirm donations his government approved for funding programs to combat organized crime, illegal drugs and family violence.

On Tuesday, Brownfield met with Public Security Minister Mario Zamora and Anti-Drug Commissioner Mauricio Boraschi to confirm “the U.S. government will provide some $6-$7 million to be used for the training of prosecutors and investigators, the professionalization of police corps, for border control tasks, and for supporting anti-drug police units during land and sea operations.”

Brownfield also said that the U.S. Embassy will implement a special program to fight domestic violence in Costa Rica by donating $1.6 million for government institutions and local NGOs.

Ambassador Anne S. Andrew emphasized the embassy is clear that “in order to help Costa Rica improve security problems, to ensure economic growth and to meet education and health challenges, it is necessary to pay more attention to the fight against domestic violence.”

Brownfield, who arrived in the country after visiting Honduras, said that he hopes the funds can help Costa Ricans “achieve more successful lives, safe and free from any form of violence.”