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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20130576.tiffRESOLUTION RE: APPROVE VICTIM'S ASSISTANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT (VALE) GRANT APPLICATION FOR VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE UNIT AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR TO SIGN WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and WHEREAS, the Board has been presented with a Victim's Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE) Grant Application from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the District Attorney's Office, Victim Witness Assistance Unit, 19th Judicial District, to the VALE Board, commencing July 1, 2013, and ending June 30, 2014, with further terms and conditions being as stated in said application, and WHEREAS, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve said application, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, that the Victim's Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE) Grant Application from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the District Attorney's Office, Victim Witness Assistance Unit, 19th Judicial District, to the VALE Board be, and hereby is, approved. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the Chair be, and hereby is, authorized to sign said application. The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted by the following vote on the 27th day of February, A.D., 2013. BOARD O COUNTY COMMISSIONERS WEL'. O . Y, COLORADO ATTEST: Weld County Clerk to the Board APP ounty Attorney Date of signature: 3I(21��J I X11 J —7 c�tM�rt i4aldevt_ is F. Garcia,. Chair Ex 91(q, Bougl Radem her, Pro-Tem rbara Kirkmeyer 2013-0576 DA0024 2013-2014 VALE ASSISTANCE FUNDS 19th Judicial District, Weld County Application SECTION A - AGENCY INFORMATION: 1. APPLICANT AGENCY: District Attorney's Office, 19th Judicial District Program Name: Victim Witness Assistance Unit Street Address (if not confidential): 915 Tenth Street Greeley, CO 80632 Mailing Address (if different): PO Box 1167 Greeley, CO 80632 Phone: 970 356-4010 Fax: 970 352-8023 E -Mail: jholden@co.weld.co.us 2. CONTACT PERSON: JoAnn Holden Title: Director of Victim Services, District Attorney's Office Phone: 970 356-4010 X4747 Fax: 970 352-8023 E -Mail: jholden@co.weld.co.us 3. Agency Status: _X_ governmental private -non-profit private -for-profit Non-profit TAX ID # NOTE: If you are claiming non-profit status and if you have not previously provided documentation supporting this claim to the VALE Board, then you must provide sufficient documentation concerning your agency's non-profit status with this application. 4. PROJECT TITLE: Victim Witness Assistance Program 5. Give a problem statement that is specific to the community the project will serve. The District Attorney's Office has mandated VRA duties for victims of Victims Rights Act Crimes. The Victim Rights Amendment mandates more VRA duties to District Attorney Offices than any other Criminal Justice System entity. The Weld County Victim Witness Assistance Unit completes these VRA mandated duties as well as VALE and Victims Compensation statutory duties. Additionally the VW Unit provides services to victims and witnesses of all crimes as the criminal case moves through the Criminal Justice System. 6. FUNDS REQUESTED: $125,755 ITEMS 1 - 6 MUST REMAIN ON THIS PAGE 1 SECTION B - NARRATIVE SUMMARY: 7. Agency description: The 19th Judicial District Attorney's Office is a government agency statutorily mandated to prosecute those charged with committing crimes against the State of Colorado. The Office's Mission Statement is, To Seek Justice, Promote Public Safety and Fight For Our Community. The Victim Witness Assistance Unit is a department in the Weld County District Attorney's Office and was established in 1980. Presently, the Victim Witness Assistance Unit staff consists of 12 staff (10.625 FTE) working with victims of felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic cases. The District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Program is the only program providing: 1. mandated notices to victims of Victim Rights' Amendment crimes regarding the critical stages of the court system which advise them of their rights with regards to the court system; 2. court case status information to victims, witnesses and law enforcement; 3. a liaison between the victim and prosecutor; 4. a safe and secure court waiting area for victims and witnesses; 5. a review of criminal cases to compile information to determine victim restitution; 6. "meaningful consultations" with misdemeanor domestic violence victims; 7. Crime Victim Compensation - regular and emergency awards; 8. administrative support to the Crime Victim Compensation and V.A.L.E. Boards. 8. Brief Project Description for which the funds are being requested. The VALE Grant provides much needed funding for the DA Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit to provide VRA mandated duties in C.R.S. 24-4.1-301 - GUIDELINES FOR ASURING THE RIGHTS OF VICTIMS AND WITNESSES TO CRIMES. The District Attorney is mandated to inform victims of the critical stages of the court system, that victims have the right to be present at the critical stages of the court system and that victims have the right to speak at Bond Modification Hearings, Entry of Plea Negotiation, Sentencing and Modification of Sentencing, and hearing regarding the victim's records being subpoenaed. The following victim rights found in C.R.S. 24-4.1-302.5 are duties the District Attorney's Office provides to victims of VRA crimes: (a) Be treated with fairness, respect and dignity, free from intimidation, harassment, or abuse, throughout the criminal justice system. (b) Be informed and present for the critical stages 24-4.1-302 (2) (c) Be notified when defendant is released from custody. (d) Be heard at bond reduction or modification hearings, acceptance of a negotiated plea, sentencing, modification of sentencing, or modification of the mandatory protection order, (e) Consult with the prosecution prior to disposition or trial. (f) Be notified of scheduling changes. (g) Be present at sentencing and to provide a victim impact statement (h) Have restitution paid. (I) Pursue a civil judgment. (k) Receive property back when no longer needed. (I) Availability of assistance. m) Be informed of steps to be taken if intimidation or harassment occurs. (n) Be provided with employer intercession. (o) Have a swift resolution to the case. (p) Have a secure waiting area, whenever practicable. (t) To be informed of the process for enforcing compliance with this article. (u) To be informed of HIV test results of the defendant when applicable. (v) To prevent victim's contact information and employment location from being disclosed during testimony. (w) To make reasonable efforts to redact a victim or witness's social security number from criminal justice records. 2 (x) To be provided with information how to request protection of their address. (y) To receive a Victim Impact Statement. (1.6) To be informed of the existence of a mandatory protection order and how to add or modify conditions. During the past eight years, Weld County has added three judges handling criminal dockets: 2005 District Court Judge added, 2006 County Court Judge added, 2007 a half time criminal docket District Court Judge, and 2008 the half time criminal docket judge increased to full time. Addition of judges increases workloads for the District Attorney's Office who hire additional attorneys to cover courtrooms. Additional judges tremendously impact the Victim Witness Assistance Program who must cover even more courtrooms simultaneously. The quality and quantity of Victim Witness staff contacts with victims has improved noticeably turning the past eight years. The Weld County District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit has undergone many changes and added responsibilities as we moved the unit to the philosophy of a proactive rather than reactive response to crime victims. Beginning January 2007, WI Assistants began to be assigned all VRA cases at initial filing, providing continual victim support, education and referrals throughout the court process including trial and sentencing. The Victim Witness Unit has been able to provide this enhanced support and service due to added financial support of the VALE Board (added a 20 hour/week employee County Court VW Assistant Intern in 2006 and a 10 hour a week W./ Assistant in 2009) and the County Commissioners (1 FTE in 2006 VW Assistant, 1 FTE in 2007 VW Assistant, 1 FTE in 2008 Restitution Clerk, a .5 FTE in 2009 adding .25 to this position in 2010 W/ Assistant). The 19th Judicial District has had a dedicated misdemeanor domestic violence court since September 2001. In February 2005, the DA's Office added a step of Victim Witness Assistants conducting "meaningful consultation", which fulfills our VRA duties, with the victim prior to the court hearing in the afternoon. After adding the "meaningful consultation" step, our initial victim contact rate increased as well as an increase in the rate of dispositions of misdemeanor domestic violence cases at first hearing. The Misdemeanor Domestic Violence Fast Track Program enhances the possibility of resolving the case at the defendant's first court appearance which promptly places defendants into state approved domestic violence treatment programs more quickly. Regardless of the disposition at the initial court hearing, victims have more immediate contact and assistance providing much needed resources to those most vulnerable. The Victim Witness Unit's support of victims must adapt to the Specialized Dockets the District Attorney adds. In 2007, the DA's Office added a specialized docket for gang cases and in 2009 added a specialized docket for felony crimes against children case. The District VW Assistants handle the crimes against children cases in their respective divisions. In 2008, a year after the gang cases became specialized, the VW Unit was able to add a VW Assistant assigned to the gang case which provided the continuity of the gang cases since the defendants, victims and witnesses in one case could be involved as a party in another gang case. Due to funding issues, in 2012 we downsized by one VW Assistant and starting April 1, 2012 we will no longer had a gang VW Assistant. In October 2010, a secretary providing .5 FTA to the WI Unit left the office, the position was not replaced and the duties of this secretary were absorbed by current WI Unit staff. Additional VW Unit personnel was not requested for either the 2011 or 2012 Budget despite losing a .5 FTE. Beginning January 2010, and for the first time in the history of the Victim Witness Unit, there was an adequate number of Victim Witness Staff to support the caseload. 3 9. RESPONSIBLE PARTIES: a)List the two individuals who are responsible for ensuring the grant is administrated as proposed by the organization and approved by the VALE Board. NAME TITLE PHONE EMAIL JoAnn Director of Victim 970 356- jholden(@,co.weld.co.us Holden Services 4010 X4747 Michael Assistant District 970 356- mrourketco.weld.co.us Rourke Attorney 4010 b) Who (give name and title) in your agency is responsible for reviewing agency bank statements against agency financial reports for accuracy of financial information? Barbara Connolly, CPA, is the Weld County Government Controller who supervises all functions dealing with county finances which would include reviewing bank statements. 4 SECTION C - GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: (Goal 1, objectives 1 and 2, are mandatory for all applicants.) 11. GOAL 1 (standard): This project will provide direct services that assist crime victims with emotional and physical needs to stabilize their lives, provide a measure of safety and security, and/or enhance victims' experience with the criminal justice system. OBJECTIVE 1 (standard): To provide services to the following estimated unduplicated number of crime victims during the 12 -month grant period. Although a person may be a victim of multiple crimes in one criminal episode, they can be counted only once using the predominant crime. Definitions: Victims: primary and secondary victims Primary victim: The person against whom the crime was committed, except in the case of homicide, and DUI/DWI deaths where the primary victims are the survivors of the victim. In domestic violence crimes, children of the primary victims (who are receiving services) are also considered to be primary victims. Secondary Victims: Persons other than primary victims receiving services because of their own reaction or needs resulting from a crime. Unduplicated Count: New and continuing victims served by the project . Continuing victim is a person served in the prior grant year who is continuing to receive services in the new grant year. EST. NO. VICTIMS TYPE OF CRIME EST. NO. VICTIMS TYPE OF CRIME 215 Child Physical Abuse 0 Adults Molested as Children 205 Child Sexual Abuse 20 Survivors of Homicide 40 DUI/DWI - Victims of vehicular assault or vehicular homicide, DUI/DWI crashes or careless driving resulting in death. 60 Robbery 900 Domestic Violence 470 Assault 45 Adult Sexual Assault 252 Other violent crimes such as hate and bias crime, gang violence (specify). 72 Elder Abuse (including economic exploitation and fraud crimes) 151 Other, please specify — indent exposure bias motivated, burgary, VPO SA cases At Risk Juvenile TOTAL UNDUPLICATED VICTIMS ESTIMATED TO BE SERVED DURING THE 12 -MONTH PERIOD 2430 5 OBJECTIVE 2 (standard): To provide the following types of services to the following estimated number of unduplicated victims during the 12 -month grant period. Number of Victims Receiving Each Type of Service: Estimate the number of victims who will receive each type of service during the grant period. A victim may receive the same type of service more than once (i.e. counseling), but the type of service can be counted only once during the grant period. An individual service category cannot exceed the total number of victims listed in table A. EST. NO. VICTIMS SERVICES EST. NO. VICTIMS SERVICES Civil Legal Advocacy/Court Accompaniment Individual Therapy Civil Legal Attorney Assistance 755 Information / Referral (in person) 1200 Criminal Justice Support / Advocacy/Court Accompaniment 1600 Information / Referral (by phone) 200 Crisis/Counseling Intervention (in person) 66 Language Services (interpretation) 230 Crisis/Counseling Intervention (by phone) Shelter / Safehouse 40 Emergency Financial Assistance Transitional Housing 1430 Follow-up (in person, by phone, or written) Transportation Forensic Exam Group Treatment / Support Hospital/Clinic Response 2430 Victim Compensation Assistance (required) 200 Victim/Survivor Advocacy 2430 Victim Rights Act Services 6 PROJECT -SPECIFIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: Add at least one more goal with objectives but no more than four additional goals with objectives. Use format provided below. Goals should be clear, concise, broad statements that highlight what the project intends to achieve. They should relate to the Project Description and Budget pages of the Application. Objectives (no more than three per goal) should be specific and measureable -(i.e. a number can be attached) in order to measure changes brought about by the project toward achieving each goal. Objectives state specifically what will be done, by whom, and by when. Objectives should be related to the personal positions requested in the budget. A timetable of projected achievement should be indicated in the Goals and Objectives. Efficiency and Effectiveness are measured in Goals and Objectives and reported on in quarterly reports. Efficiency: Were the projects proposed activities accomplished as projected? Effectiveness: How will you determine that your project is effective or has made a difference to the victims served? GOAL 2: Provide direct assistance to victims of domestic violence by providing Victims' Rights information and education, referral to community services, updates on the status of the prosecution and support throughout the court process. Objective 1. By June 30, 2014, provide services to 725 primary victims of misdemeanor domestic violence and 175 primary victims of felony domestic violence. Objective 2. By June 30, 2014, have "meaningful consultation" with 70% of misdemeanor domestic violence victims the next working day after the crime which should result in a 25% disposition rate. On a quarterly basis, recap the results including a review of victim surveys to identify the positive and negative aspects of the program and make any needed changes. Objective 3. By June 30, 2014, have contact with 70% of the primary victims of felony domestic violence prior to defendant's Advisement Hearing to provide information, support, and referrals. On a quarterly basis, recap the results including a review of victim surveys to identify the positive and negative aspects of the program and make any needed changes. GOAL 3: Provide victim and witness services: VRA notifications, court hearing call offs and Trial support. Objective 1. By June 30, 2014, send 20,000 VRA Notification letters to victims. Objective 2. By June 30, 2014, call off 2500 victims and witnesses (non -officers) to avoid them traveling to court to testify in a hearing. Objective 3. By June 30, 2014, provide trial support for 220 trials; District Court 70 trials; County Court 100 trials, and Juvenile 50 trials. GOAL 4: Provide Victim Compensation Assistance. Objective 1. By June 30, 2014, provide assistance to a total of 600 crime victims. Objective 2. By June 30, 2014, provide assistance to 230 victims in which a criminal case is not filed in the court system. Objective 3. By June 30, 2014, provide emergency assistance to 40 crime victims, 20 being victims of domestic violence. 7 GOAL 5: Collaborate with Law Enforcement Agencies, Probation, and Victim Service Agencies to coordinate efforts in serving victims and respond to victim client feedback on service received. Objective 1. Participate in monthly or quarterly meetings of Domestic Violence Coalition and Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime, Look for opportunites to increase knowledge and resources by meeting with community agencies that provide services and interpretation for victims from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. Objective 2. By June 30, 2014, have VW Unit staff attend 10 trainings (if monetarily possible) and participate in providing 7 trainings. Report on both activities. Objective 3. Achieve an 80% approval rating on all returned victim surveys and on a quarterly basis, provide a summary of results of the victim surveys evaluating client satisfaction and uncover positive and negative aspects of the programs and any need for change. 12. Address what problems, if any, you anticipate in implementing your program's goals and objectives. We do not anticipate any problems. How do you plan to resolve these problems? N/A 13a. Services as defined in the V.A.L.E. statute, 24-4.2-105 (4) (a — m) C.R.S. YES NO Services: C.R.S. 24-4.2-105 (4) (a — m) X (a) Provision of services for early crisis intervention; X (b) Provision of telephone lines for victims and witnesses assistance; X (c) Referral of victims to appropriate social service and victim compensation programs and assistance in filling out forms for compensation; X (e.5) Assistance programs for victims and their families; X (d) Education of victims and witnesses about the operation of the criminal justice system; X (e) Assistance in prompt return of the victims' property; X (0 Notification to the victim of the progress of the investigation, the defendant's arrest, subsequent bail determinations, anc the status of the case; X (g) Intercession with the employers or creditors of victims or witnesses; X (h) Assistance to the elderly and to persons with disabilities in arranging transportation to and from court; X (i) Provision of translator services; X (j) Coordination of efforts to assure that victims have a secure place to wait before testifying; X (k) Provision of counseling or assistance during court appearances when appropriate; X (1) Protection from threats of harm and other forms of intimidation; X (m) Special advocate services(7) (b) "Special advocate services" means the services offered to aid victims who are children, including, but not limited to, court -appointed special advocate (CASA) programs, sexual assault treatment and prevention programs, community -based youth and family servicing programs, gang alternative programs, school -based intervention and prevention programs, big brother and big sister programs offering aid to children who are victims, restitution programs, partners programs offering aid to children who are victims, and child abuse treatment programs_ 8 (2.5) (a) (I) The court administrator of each judicial district may apply for grants of moneys for the purpose of collecting all moneys assessed by the courts, including moneys owed pursuant to this article, and collecting and disbursing restitution owed to victims of crime; (2.5) (a) (I) The local probation department may apply for grants of moneys for the purpose of implementing the right of victims. 13b. For each YES listed in 13 a), reference the Goal and Objective that relates to the service provided with a brief explanation. DO NOT RESTATE THE GOAL OR OBJECTIVE. List letter (a — m) which refers to 13.a List Goal and Objective(s) pertaining to the service provided in your GOALS and OBJECTIVES. a crisis intervention Goal 2: Objective 1, Objective 2; Objective 3 — VW Assistants providing service to domestic violence victims throughout the CJS Goal 1: Objective 1 — VW Assistant providing victims services throughout the CJS especially for crimes involving murder, child sexual assault Goal 4: Objective 1, Objective 2, Objective 3 — V/COMP Assistants dealing with victims early in the crime which is many times is a very emotional time. c Victim Compensation Goal 2: Objective 1 — VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in VRA Letters Goal 1: Objective 1 — VW Assistants assisting victims of any eligible crime Goal 4: Objective 1, Objective 2, Objective 3 — V/COMP assistants helping many victims with the application process especially those needing emergency assistance d education of CJS Goal 2: Objective 1- VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in VRA Letters Objective 2- calling off victims & witnesses from testifying Objective 3 — during the process of coordinating trials Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime as the case progresses through the CJS Goal 4: Objective 1, Objective 2 — V/COMP assistants referring victim to their VW Assistant for complete information on the CJS e Return of Victim's property Goal 2: Objective 1 - VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in final disposition letter Objective 2,— when calling off victims and witnesses from testifying Objective 3 — during the process of coordinating the trial Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime after the case is completed in the CJS f Notification of the status of the case Goal 2: Objective 1 - VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in VRA Letters Objective 2,— when calling off victims and witnesses from testifying Objective 3 — during the process of coordinating the trial Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime after the case is completed in the CJS g Intercession for victim with employer, creditor Goal 2: Objective 1- VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 3- during the process of coordinating the trial Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime when a victim wants to use their VRA right to attend court hearing Goal 4: Objective 1, Objective 2, Objective 3 - V/COMP Assistants helping victims gather documentation for a V/COMP claim. 9 i translation services Goal 2: Objective 1 Goal 3: Objective 3; Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime — Spanish bi-lingual VW Assistants are always available to assist Spanish speaking victim and witnesses. VW Assistants contact Interpreters for other language interpretation I secure court waiting room Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 3; Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime - The VW Assistants utilize four court house waiting rooms and one DA Office waiting rooms for the security and comfort of victims and witnesses. k assistance during court appearances Goal 2: Objective 1- VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 3- during the process of coordinating the trial Goal 1: Objective 1 — any crime when a victim attends a court hearing 1 protection of threats of harm/intimidation Goal 2: Objective 1- VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims Goal 3: Objective 3- during the process of coordinating the trial Goal 1: Objective I — any crime when a victim attends a court hearing 14. Will this project utilize volunteers and or interns? X Yes n No If yes, please answer the following: 7 Number of volunteers/interns which were utilized from July 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012. 428 Number of volunteer/intern hours from July 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012. 10 SECTION D - SERVICE INFORMATION: 15. What is the population and geographic area targeted for service through this project? Weld County, Colorado covers 3,999 square miles, and is the third largest county in Colorado. The 2012 United States census indicates the county population was 258,638. The Hispanic population of 73,712 is 28.5% of the total population. There are 31 incorporated towns in Weld County. According to the 2012 census, the county seat and principal city, Greeley, contains 36.7% of the county's population of 94,962. Generally, most of the remaining population resides within a 20 to 30 miles radius of Greeley and the northeastern part of the county is sparsely populated. In addition, Weld County has a sizeable temporary population that includes a large seasonal worker population and students attending the University of Northern Colorado and Aims Community College a) How many crime victims have you served and will you serve? VICTIMS SERVED 1 YEAR July 1, 2010 Through June 30, 2011 VICTIMS SERVED 1 YEAR July 1, 2011 Through June 30, 2012 PROJECTED VICTIMS SERVED July 1, 2012 Through June 30, 2013 PROJECTION OF VICTIMS TO SERVE July 1, 2013 Through June 30, 2014 2503 2197 2246 "2430 *This number reflects 2200 victims of cases in which a criminal case was fled against an offender and projected 230 victims who will be assisted by the Victim Compensation Unit in which no charges will be filed (suspect unknown, unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt). Prior to this grant, stats were not reported on victims whose offenders were not prosectuted. b) What is the number of victims served July 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012? 1123 c) Are there other community agencies currently providing like services to the targeted population? NO If yes, explain how this project is not a duplication of services. N/A 16. Document community support, coordination and networking by providing the following information: a) List the top five agencies who your agency works most closely with in coordination and provision of crime victim services and indicate how you work with them. 1 Greeley PD Victim Services Advocates from LE and DA's Office discuss and coordinate victims to promote a smooth transition from LE investigation to cases being filed by the DA's Office. 2 WCSO Victim Services Advocates from LE and DA's Office discuss and coordinate victims to promote a smooth transition from LE investigation to cases being filed by the DA's Office. 3 A Woman's Place - AWP We refer victims to A Woman's Place Legal Advocacy Program which is located in the courthouse to obtain civil protection orders. 11 The positive relationship and trust is invaluable when making referrals to each other's agencies. We hope to reestablish the quarterly meetings with AWP Advocates to discuss domestic violence projects in Weld County, strategize victim safety plans and provide training once new staff at AWP is able to begin these meetings again. 4 Probation Victim Services Discuss and coordinate victims whose defendant's have received a Probation Sentence. Coordinate when supervised Probation cases become unsupervised Probation and therefore become the responsibility of the DA's Office for VRA compliance with the victim. 5 Catholic Charties District Attorney Victim Assistants contact this agency to discuss and refer victims for monetary needs that have no other resources. b) Is your agency an active participant in Weld County's Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime (CCVC)? If "yes," provide the name(s) and position(s) of the CCVC participant(s) and their level of involvement in that group. NAME OF MEMBER HOW THEY PARTICIPATE Karol Patch Attends quarterly meetings, member of VR Event Subcommittee JoAnn Holden Chairs CCVC, attends quarterly meetings, member of VR Event Subcommittee, Coordinates trainings Erin Callan VW Assistant Member of VR Event Subcommittee for 2013 c) Briefly describe any other agency actions that demonstrate its high priority for developing community support, coordination, networking, and cooperation. The Weld County District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Program maintains a professional working -relationship with law enforcement victim assistance programs (who represent 21 law enforcement agencies), non-profit crime victim service agencies, the Courts, Clerk's Office, Collections, Probation Department's Victim Assistance Program as well as judges when projects require their input. The DA Office Victim Witness Assistance Program is part of the Weld County Domestic Violence Coalition and CCVC - Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime (Holden -Chair), Additionally, the Project Director is also a part of SART (Sexual Assault Review Team), and MCR SANE (Medical Center of the Rockies Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner). All these programs have a crime victim component to their agenda. The member contacts at these meetings are invaluable in networking, gaining new contact resource people, and brainstorming system changes. 12 SECTION E - VICTIM COMPENSATION: Provide the following information concerning your agency's involvement with the Crime Victim Compensation Program: Provide the following information concerning your agency's involvement with the Crime Victim Compensation Program: 17. a) Does your agency regularly inform victims about Victim Compensation and help them to apply when appropriate? X Yes n No How? The Victim Witness Assistance Program provides information to victims concerning Crime Victim Compensation in the initial filing letter received by a VRA Victim. Additionally, Victim Compensation brochures (English and Spanish) are available in every court waiting room and the District Attorney's Office Lobby. VW Assistants also help victims complete application forms and refer victims to the Victim Compensation Program. b) Explain any major issues that hinder your agency in helping crime victims to understand Victim Compensation eligibility requirements and to apply for benefits. Since the District Attorney's Office Administers the Victim Compensation Fund, the VW Assistance staff is very knowledgeable about compensation criteria. c) Does your agency regularly conduct/receive Victim Compensation training for direct services staff and volunteers? X Yes L No Date of the last training: 9-4-12 Person who conducted the training: Karol Patch 12 Number of Staff and Volunteers in your agency providing services to crime victims. 12 Number of Staff and Volunteers who attended the last Victim Compensation Training. DO NOT INCLUDE VICTIM COMPENSATION BROCHURES WITH YOUR APPLICATION. VALE USE ONLY Reviewed Victim Compensation Coordinator Comments: 13 SECTION F - VICTIM RIGHTS ACT: 18. Has your agency taken steps to assure that all staff and volunteers have read and understand the GUIDELINES FOR ASSURING THE RIGHTS OF VICTIMS OF AND WITNESSES TO CRIMES: Rights afforded to crime victims - C.R.S. 24-4.1-302.5; Procedures for assuring rights of victims of crimes; C.R.S. 24-4.1-303; and Child victim or witness — rights and services — C.R.S. 24-4.1-304 X Yes ❑ No a) Briefly describe how your agency assures that all staff and volunteers are trained on VRA. Jo Ann Holden, Director of Victim Services of the Weld County District Attorney's Office, has been involved in the Victims' Rights Constitutional Amendment prior to voter approval in November 1992. Holden implemented one of the first automated Victims' Rights Notification Systems in the state in the 181h JD DA's Office. She was a committee member of the Constitutional Amendment Training Committee during 1993 and 1994 and an instructor in several regional trainings throughout the state as well as a technical support person to the C.O.V.A. Trainer. She has been involved in the Victims' Rights Enabling Legislative Committee when modifications were made to assure compliance which resulted in the cleanup bill passed in 1995. She provided input on language in the VRA Enabling Legislation which is being amended in the 2012 legislative session. The expert information Holden has is passed on to the Victim Witness Staff via staff meetings and policies and procedures. Policies and procedures that are implemented in the Office of the District Attorney as a direct result of requirements of the Victims' Rights Amendment are discussed in a thorough manner with staff regarding the importance of following through with the new procedure because it is a Victims' Rights Amendment issue. b) Does your agency have a statutory mandate to notify victims about their rights under VRA? X Yes ❑ No c) VRA Training: Date of the last training: 8-3-12 Person who conducted the training: Jo Ann Holden, Director of Victim Services 12 Number of Staff and Volunteers in your agency providing services to crime victims. 12 Number of Staff and Volunteers who attended the VRA Training Due to the number of changes to the VRA statutes, JoAnn Holden trained the entire DA Office, attorneys and support staff in August and September 2012. d) How does your agency notify victims of their rights under VRA? The Victim Witness Assistance Unit receives new cases with VRA crimes. Victims are identified, entered into a database and an initial VRA Packet is mailed. The initial VRA Packet includes information regarding the charges filed, a VRA Brochure, a letter explaining the availability of Crime Victim Compensation, a request to complete a Victim Impact Statement and a list of various victim -service providers. As the case progresses through the court system, DA Office secretarial staff sends case - status EMAILs to staff in the Victim Witness Assistance Unit who select the appropriate Victim Rights Letter to send to the identified victim rights victims. Victim Witness Assistants are available to answer victim's questions by phone or in person and are available to provide court support when victims wish to attend a critical stage of the court system. 14 e) Does your agency have a brochure describing VRA? X Yes n No If "yes", list the languages in which your brochure is available. See SECTION I. ATTACHMENTS English. Presently using DCJ Spanish brochure although we are working on a Spanish version of our own brochure. f) If you agency does not have a brochure describing VRA, please indicate if your agency utilizes brochures from other agencies. N/A 15 SECTION G - EVALUATION: How will you evaluate the effectiveness of this project? 19. If this is an application for continuing funding, how successful has this project been in the past in accomplishing its proposed goals and objectives? The Victim Witness Assistance Program is meeting the goals and objectives as outlined in quarterly reports for the first six months of the grant cycle, July 1, 2012 through December 31, 2012 although at six months some numbers are lower than one half of projected one year figures. The figures were based on statistics from the previous grant request. Number of Victims Served — The number of victims is presently lower than projected. Victim Services - Some of the service areas are more than projected and some less than projected. DV Fast Track Program - The overall initial victim contact rate 68%, the full year projection is 70%. The case disposition rate is 20%, the full year projection is 25%. Felony DV Victims — The overall victim contact prior to defendant's Advisement Hearing is higher than projected. Projected 68%, presently at 72.5% VRA Letters - The number of VRA letters sent to victim is slightly less than projected; 9733 sent in six months, projected 10,000 to be sent in 6 months.. Victims and Witnesses Called Off - Projections for the number called off is lower than projected for the year;. Last year after six months the number was higher than projected. Survey approval — is as projected at 80% approval. Trial Support - The number of trials for County is significantly less than projected and for Juvenile significantly higher than projected. 20. What is the projected cost per client served (cost/benefit ratio)? Funds requested divided by number of victims projected to serve = cost per client $51.75 per VRA victim to be served . 16 SECTION H - BUDGETARY INFORMATION: All Budget pages MUST be completed. All figures should be rounded to the nearest dollar. 21. What is the management plan for the project? (Specifically, who will be responsible or accountable for the administration of the project?) The day-to-day management of the District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Program is the responsibility of JoAnn Holden, Director of Victim Services. JoAnn is supervised by Kenneth R. Buck, District Attorney and Michael Rourke, Assistant District Attorney. Accounting functions are provided by Barbara Connolly Controller of Weld County Government and the Board of County Commissioners. 22. What controls and processes does your agency have in place for writing checks? The answer should include information including: who in the agency is authorized to request a check, who is authorized to write a check, who is authorized to sign a check, whether or not dual signatures are required on any checks, and whether or not a person authorized to write a check could sign a check to themselves. All financial requests, including payroll, in Weld County are processed through a separate accounting department. Requests are initially submitted to an office administrator who enters an electronic request in the accounting system. The accounting department then reviews all requests for proper documentation and approval if required related to request. A list of payables is submitted to the County Commissioners for their review. If approved, the Clerk to the Board process the checks through an automatic check signing process and they are sent out. Due to the separation of duties and multiple review process, dual signatures are not required. 23. What process does your agency have in place to reconcile financial information with the quarterly VALE Financial Report? Teri McDaniel, Accountant II in the Weld County Accounting Department gives the Project Director a quarterly spreadsheet indicating personal costs of each employee in the Victim Witness Assistance Unit. The Project Director takes the figures off the spreadsheet to complete the VALE Financial reports. The VALE Financial Report is then given to Barbara Connolly, CPA, Weld County Government Controller for final review and signature. 17 BUDGET INFORMATION TOTAL AGENCY VICTIM SERVICES This page recaps your entire Victim Service Agency Budget. This recap provides an overall picture of your agency's funding sources and percentage of funding being requested in the VALE Application. Please indicate the sources for ALL funding your agency receives for victim services. FUNDING START DATE AMOUNT Month/Day/Year Month/Day/Year END DATE VALE Grant (if applicable) 125,755 07 / 01 / 12 06 / 30 / 13 DCJ Consolidated Grant VOCA or VAWA 55,964 01 / 01 / 13 12 / 31 /13 Grant / / / / Other - VALE Admin 88,000 est 01 / 01 / 13 12 / 31 /13 Other — COMP Admin 52,000 est 01 / 01 / 13 12 / 31 /13 Other — County Funding 342,325 est 01 / 01 / 13 12 / 31 /13 TOTAL 664,044 est Please specify the source of "Other" funds ( other grants, government funds, city funds, donations, fund-raising, etc.) "Other" funds should reflect hard dollars and NOT in -kind contributions (office space, phones, etc) HOW WILL FUTURE FUNDING NEEDS BE MET? The Victim Witness Assistance Program, as a division of a governmental agency, is limited in the sources and activities it is allowed to use to raise revenue. While the financial support provided by Weld County has increased, the VW Unit must compete with other high priority programs for limited county funding. The Director of Victim Services writes grants for funding when available and appropriate, but grant funding cannot be relied to always be available. Additionally, the VALE Administration dollars and COMP Administration dollars decreased from 2008-2010 so reserve VALE and COMP dollars were used to make up the difference between grants and county funding. Reserve dollars in both VALE and COMP are now depleted. Due to the lack of dollars, the VW Unit downsized by one VW Assistant starting April 1, 2012. The DA's Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit staff's salaries and benefits were funded in 2011: 55% = Weld County Commissioners 13% = VALE Administration funds 7% = COMP Administration funds 7% = VAWA Grant 18% = VALE Grant 18 VALE PROJECT BUDGET INFORMATION PROJECT FUNDS REQUESTED BUDGET: Continuation Applicants fill out Columns 1, 2, and 3. New Applicants fill out Column 2 only. ROUND TO NEAREST DOLLAR Continuation Applicants ALL APPLICANTS Continuation (Column 1) 2012 - 2013 (Column 2) 2013 -2014 Applicants (Column 3) Current Grant Award Requested Budget Increase or Decrease PERSONNEL PERSONNEL (+/-) Job Position Job Position/NAME VW Director (Holden) 29,290 VW Director (Holden) 40,642 +11,352 VW Assistant (Lopez) 36,656 VW Assistant (Hammer) 11,145 -25,511 VW DVPT/Cty Intern (Murky) 13,182 VW DVPT/Cty Intern (Murky) 13,447 + 265 VW Clerical (Sutliff) 16,062 VW Clerical (Sutliff) 16,387 + 325 V/COMP Assistant (Reynolds) 15,985 +15,985 Fringe Benefits 30,565 Fringe Benefits 28,149 - 2,416 Subtotal 125,755 Subtotal 125,755 0 SUPPLIES AND OPERATING EXPENSES SUPPLIES & OPERATING EXPENSES (+ / -) Subtotal Subtotal IN -STATE TRAVEL IN -STATE TRAVEL (+ / -) Subtotal Subtotal PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES (+ / -) Subtotal Subtotal TOTAL FUNDS: 125,755 TOTAL FUNDS REQUESTED: 125,755 0 19 VALE PROJECT BUDGET DETAIL AND JUSTIFICATION A. PERSONNEL: List each job position, include the name of the employee, if available. If two individuals have the same job title, list it twice. Indicate FTE of individual (EX: 1 FTE; .5 FTE; .75 FTE) TOTAL COST - Show the total amount of salary and fringe benefits of the position (SALARY and FRINGE BENEFITS are to be shown separately.) VALE % - Show the VALE percent requested for the total cost of the position VALE Funding - Calculate the VALE funding request based on the TOTAL COST and VALE %. Other Funding Source(s) - Indicate how the position is paid for other than VALE funding. If the position cannot be funded (because 100% VALE Funding) indicate this. Title of Job FTE Total VALE VALE If THIS grant funding will not pay for PositionAName Cost % Requested Funding Request ed the entire position, what other SOURCE will be used to pay for the rest of the position VW Director (Holden) 1 112,601 57% 64,511 VALE Admin Funds VW Assistant (Hammer) 1 66,528 18% 11,764 VAWA Grant, County, VALE Admin VW DVFT/Cty Intern (Murley) .5 14,469 100% 14,469 VALE Admin Funds (although limited, may need to delete position if not VALE Grant funded) VW Clerical (Sutliff) .625 17,747 100% 17,747 VALE Admin Funds (although limited, may need to delete position if not VALE Grant funded) ViCOMP (Reynolds .5 17,264 100% 17,264 VALE or COMP Admin Funds (although limited, may need to delete position if not VALE Grant funded) Narrative Justification: Explain and justify the project's budget and relate the personnel budgeted to project activities and their qualifications. Name of and Title of Person: JoAnn Holden, Director of Victim Services Program VALE Cost: $64,511 (S: $40,642 B:$23,869) The County no longer funds any part of this position as those county funds were transferred to VW Lopez in 2012 to make her a full time County Employee enabling increases of benefits, cost of living or step increases to be absorbed totally by the county instead of grant funding. The only other funding source for this position is VALE Administrative dollars; COMP Administrative dollars have been transferred in total to the COMP Administrator. The VALE Administration funds were down 5% from 2008 to 2009, remained the same from 2009 to 2010 and had a slight increase in 2011 and remained the same in 2012. Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Holden to provide supervision of the Victim Witness Assistance Unit, Administrative duties, Witness Protection duties, and direct victim support. DIRECTOR OF VICTIM SERVICES QUALIFICATIONS: Masters degree in counseling, psychology or related area with extensive course work in public administration and/or management. Five years of increasingly responsible job -related administrative duties with at least two years in a supervisory capacity. Any equivalent combination of education and experience. 20 Name of and Title of Person: Laurie Hammer, County Court Victim Witness Assistant VALE Cost: $11,764 (S: $11,145 B: $619) Works 40 hours a week. Benefits: FICA, Medicare, Health, Life, Disability, Retirement Funding for this position is presently obtained through a VAWA Grant (64% of salary and benefits) and County matching funds for the VAWA Grant. Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Hammer to provide direct victim support to victims of misdemeanor crimes and Careless Resulting in Death cases. VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANT QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's Degree in Human Services, Criminal justice, or closely related field AND some experience in crime victim services delivery. Working knowledge of personal computer. Highly desirable for applicant to be bi-lingual (Spanish). Any equivalent combination of education and experience. Name of and Title of Person: Stephanie Murley, County Court Victim Witness Assistant Intern VALE Cost: $14,469 (S: $13,447 B: $1022) Works 20 hours a week at $12.80 per hour, benefits FICA & Medicare All funding for this position is presently obtained through the VALE Grant. This position used to be partially funded by VALE Administration funds, however, these funds were down 5% from 2008 to 2009, remained the same from 2009 to 2010 and had a slight increase in 2011 and remained the same in 2012. Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Murley to assist the County Court VW Assistant with the daily duties of the DV Fast Track Program and County Court workload and provide support to Spanish-speaking victims. COUNTY COURT VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANT INTERN: Associates Degree in Criminal Justice, Human Services or closely related field or pursuing a Bachelors Degree in same fields. Working knowledge of personal computer. Highly desirable for applicant to be bi-lingual (Spanish). Any equivalent combination of education and experience. Name of and Title of Person: Mike Reynolds, Victim Compensation Assistant VALE Cost: $17,264 (S: $15,985 B: $1279) Works 20 hours a week at $15,22 per hour, benefits FICA, Medicare, Life, Disability Presently funding for this position is obtained through COMP Administrative funds. We would like to transfer all COMP Administrative dollars to the COMP Administrator. COMP Administration funds were down 5% from 2008 to 2009, remained the same from 2009 to 2010 and had a slight increase in 2011 and remained the same in 2012. Prior to 2010, the VALE Grant funded part of the Victim Compensation Program. Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Reynolds to assist victims in the Crime Victim Compensation Unit: Open, review and screen Victim Compensation applications for thoroughness; contact victims to obtain additional information when needed; types and composes correspondence and forms, obtain, police reports, verify bills, met with victims in person to assist in paperwork completion. RECEPTIONIST/CLERICAL QUALIFICATIONS: Associates degree in Criminal Justice, Human Services or closely related field or pursuing a Bachelors Degree in same fields with an emphasis in business or accounting or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. 21 B. SUPPLIES AND OPERATING REQUEST: All supplies and operating requests must be specific, itemized costs related to victim services. C. IN -STATE TRAVEL REQUEST: Itemize travel expenses of project personnel by purpose D. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES REQUEST: List consultants or independent contractors who will provide victim services under the grant. E. DIFFERENCES FROM LAST YEAR'S REQUEST (Continuation Applicants only): If this is an application for continuing funding, explain any changes from last year's awarded funding and this proposed funding. This request for this grant is the same as the grant for the 2012-2013 grant cycle. Differences deal with changing funding among the positions. JOANN HOLDEN — increase of $24,676. This change reflects moving Holden's County funding to VW Assistant Lopez to make Lopez a fully funded County employee. Additionally, this position no longer takes any COMP Administrative dollars for this position. This position received a step increase and projected 2% cost of living increase in January 2014. LAURIE HAMMER - decrease of $42,281. Rose Lopez who had been receiving VALE funding is now fully funded by the County. Hammer is partially funded by a VAWA Grant and matching County dollars and needs less VALE Grant dollars allotted to her position. This position will receive a step increase in October 2013 and projected 2% cost of living increase January 2014 . STEPHANIE MURLEY — increase of $101. This position is totally funded by the VALE Grant so any increases given to county employees have to be absorbed. This part time hourly employee does not receive step increases but does receive cost of living increases; 2% projected for January 2014. RUTH SUTLIFF — increase of $240 due to the cost of living increase . This position is totally funded by the VALE Grant so any increases given to county employees have to be absorbed. This part time hourly employee does not receive step increases but does receive cost of living increases; 2% projected for January 2014. MIKE REYNOLDS — increase of $17,264 due to adding him to this grant. Victim Compensation positions were asked for in the VALE Grant prior to 2010 This part time hourly employee does not receive step increases but does receive cost of living increases; 2% projected for January 2014. 22 VALE Grant Application Signature Page Applicant Agency: District Attorney's Office, 19`s Judicial District Project Title: Victim Witness Assistance Unit Grant Period: July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014 We hereby certify that the information contained herein is true and correct to the best of our knowledge and belief. The following signatories understand and agree that any grant received as a result of this application shall incorporate and be subject to the statements made within the above described VALE Grant Application (The Application). Furthermore, the signatories certify that they have each read The Application and are fully cognizant of their duties and responsibilities for this project. Original signatures of each party to this application (i.e., Project Director, Financial Officer and Authorized Official) are required. Please use BLUE INK to distinguish the original documents from copies. Refer to Application Instructions for definitions for the signing authorities. Protect Director: Name: JoAnn Holden Position/Title: Director of Victim Services Agency (including Division or Unit): 19"' Judicial District Attorney's Office, Victim Witness Assistance Unit Mailing Address: PO Box 1167, Greeley, CO 80632 Phone: 970 356-4010 Ax: 9710 352r8 3 E -Mail: jholden@co.weld.co.us i" Signature: �•-t �. Date: Financial Offic Name: Barbara o oily Position/Title: Financial Officer Agency (including Division or Unit): Weld County Government Mailing Address: PO Box 758, Greeley, CO 80632 Phone: 970 356-4000 ext 4218 : 970 352-0242 E -Mail: bcotmolly@co.weld.co.us Signature: Authorized Official: Name: William F. Garcia FEB 2 7 2013 Date: Position/Title: Chair, Board of County Commissioners. Agency (including Division or Unit): Board of County Commissioners, Weld County Mailing Address: PO Box 758, Greeley, CO 80632 Phone: 970 336-7„204 xf42007 Fax: 970 352-0242 E -Mail: mgrcia@co.weld.co.us Signature: Date: FEB 272013 In accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes 24-72-202.6, information supplied in this application is considered a public record. 23 \—C`J(p ATTACHMENT VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT BOARD GRANT APPLICANT MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING CONCERNING THE RIGHTS AFFORDED TO CRIME VICTIMS As provided in C.R.S. 24-4.2-105 (4.7), Colorado law requires the following: A REQUESTING AGENCY OR PERSON SHALL ACKNOWLEDGE IN WRITING THAT SUCH AGENCY OR PERSON HAS READ AND UNDERSTANDS THE RIGHTS AFFORDED TO CRIME VICTIMS PURSUANT TO SECTION 24-4.1-302.5 AND THE SERVICES DELINEATED PURSUANT TO SECTION 24-4.1-303 AND 24-4.1-304. SUCH WRITTEN ACKNOWLEDGMENT SHALL BE ATTACHED TO SUCH REQUESTING AGENCY'S OR PERSON'S APPLICATION FOR MONEYS PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION. THE BOARD SHALL NOT ACCEPT FOR EVALUATION ANY APPLICATION FOR A GRANT OF MONEYS PURSUANT TO THIS SECTION UNTIL THE REQUESTING AGENCY OR PERSON PROVIDES THE BOARD WITH SUCH WRITTEN ACKNOWLEDGMENT. The prospective grantee certifies to the VALE Board, by submission of this completed Grant Applicant Memorandum of Understanding Concerning the Rights Afforded to Crime Victims, that the agency or person described herein has read and understands the rights afforded to crime victims as required by C.R.S. 24-4.2-105 (4.7). PROJECT DIRECTOR: JoAnn Holden TITLE: Director of Victim Services PROJECT: Victim Witness Assistance Unit AGENCY: Weld County District Attorney's Office ADDRESS: PO Box 1167, Greeley, CO. 80632_ SIGNATURE: DATE: COPIES OF THE S ATUTES DESCRIBED WILL BE PROVIDED TO PROSPECTIVE GRANT RECIPIE T$ UPON REQUEST. 25 Hello