HomeMy WebLinkAbout20120583.tiff RESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE APPLICATION FOR VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW
ENFORCEMENT (VALE) GRANT FOR VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
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 an Application for a Victim Assistance and
Law Enforcement (VALE) Grant from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the
Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the 19th Judicial District Attorney's
Office, Victim Witness Assistance Unit, to the VALE Board, commencing July 1, 2012, and ending
June 30, 2013, 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 Application for a Victim Assistance and Law Enforcement(VALE)Grant
from the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of
Weld County, on behalf of the 19th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Victim Witness Assistance
Unit, 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 29th day of February, A.D., 2012.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
WELD COUNTY, COLORADO
ATTEST: j -�Y��
Sean P. ay, Chair
Weld County Clerk to the Board
• ELF, William F. Garcia, Pro-Te
BY: a <
Deputy CI k to the Boar ;;;� / i' kaA 1 L
I ='0 `arbara Kirkmeyer
AP"'O AS i XCUSED
W ��' David E. Long
ou y 'ttorneyor �O� ilvLr-
Douglas Rademac er
Date of signature: 3 -d 3-/a
prig 4o Sn P nip l CC 2012-0583
2- P) -12- 3 Z t2-I Z DA0023
19th Judicial District, Weld County
Application page 1
SECTION A - AGENCY INFORMATION: VALE USE ONLY
1. APPLICANT AGENCY: Grant#:
District Attorney's Office, 19" Judicial District Amount Requested:
Amount Funded:
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#
Functions or activities for which VALE funds will not be approved include but are not limited to offender
or rehabilitative services, religious instruction, or proselytizing.
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 and statutory duties (VALE and Victims Compensation) and additionally 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
2012-0583
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SECTION B - NARRATIVE SUMMARY:
7. Agency description:
The 19th Judicial District Attorneys 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 13 staff(11.625 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. 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, or
sentencing
(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.
During the past seven 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.
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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 seven 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,
VW 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 VW 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 VW 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, we must downsize by one VW Assistant and
starting April 1, 2012 we will no longer have a gang VW Assistant.
In October 2010, a secretary providing .5 FTA to the VW Unit left the office, the position was not replaced
and the duties of this secretary were absorbed by current VW 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.
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- jholdenco.weld.co.us
Holden Services 4010 X4747
Michael Assistant District 970 356- mrourkeaco.weld.co.us
Rourke Attorney 4010
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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.
SECTION C - GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: (Goal 1, objectives 1 and 2, are
mandatory for all applicants.)
10. 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.
EST. NO. EST. NO.
VICTIMS TYPE OF CRIME VICTIMS TYPE OF CRIME
210 Child Physical Abuse 0 Adults Molested as Children
65 Child Sexual Abuse 10 Survivors of Homicide Victims
40 DUI/DWI —Victims of vehicular assault or 45 Robbery
homicide, DUI/DWI crashes, or careless
driving resulting in death
920 Domestic Violence 525 Assault
Other violent crimes
40 Adult Sexual Assault 230
50 Elder Abuse (including economic 165 Other: — Burglary of a dwelling, indecent
exploitation and fraud crimes) exposure, VOP SA case,
At Risk Juvenile
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TOTAL UNDUPLICATED VICTIMS ESTIMATED TO BE SERVED DURING THE 12-MONTH PERIOD 2300
Refer to Application Instructions for information on how to count victims.
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OBJECTIVE 2 (standard): To provide the following types of services to the following estimated number
of unduplicated victims during the 12-month grant period.
EST. NO. EST. NO.
VICTIMS SERVICES VICTIMS SERVICES
Civil Legal Advocacy/Court Individual Therapy
Accompaniment
Civil Legal Attorney Assistance 725 Information / Referral (in person)
1320 Criminal Justice Support/ 1550 Information/ Referral (by phone)
Advocacy/Court Accompaniment
200 Crisis/Counseling Intervention (in person) 80 Language Services (interpretation)
250 Crisis/Counseling Intervention (by phone) Shelter/ Safehouse
40 Emergency Financial Assistance Transitional Housing
1270 Follow-up (in person, by phone, or written) Transportation
Forensic Exam 2300 Victim Compensation Assistance
(required)
Group Treatment/Support 175 Victim/Survivor Advocacy
Hospital/Clinic Response 2300 Victim Rights Act Services
Refer to Application Instructions for the definitions of the services listed in the chart.
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11. PROJECT-SPECIFIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:
Add no more than four additional goals with objectives. Use format provided below.
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, 2013, provide services to 760 primary victims of misdemeanor domestic
violence and 160 primary victims of felony domestic violence.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2013, 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, 2013, have contact with 68% 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, 2013, send 20,000 VRA Notification letters to victims.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2013, call off 3000 victims and witnesses (non-officers)to avoid them traveling
to court to testify in a hearing.
Objective 3. By June 30, 2013, provide trial support for 230 trials; District Court 70 trials; County Court
130 trials, and Juvenile 50 trials.
GOAL 4: 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, Coordinating
Committee for Victims of Crime, Advocate Meeting with A Woman's Place. 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, 2013, 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.
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12. Address what problems, if any,you anticipate in implementing your program's goals and
objectives.
We do not anticipate any problems.
13. a) 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 (c.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 (f) 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 (I) 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.
(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.
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b) For each YES listed in 13a reference the Goal &Objective that relates to the service provided.
List letter(a—m) List Goal and Objective(s) pertaining to the service provided in your GOALS
which refers to 13.a and OBJECTIVES.
a Goal 2: Objective 1, Objective 2; Objective 3 —VW Assistants providing service to
crisis intervention 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
C Goal 2: Objective 1 —VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
Victim Compensation Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in VRA Letters
Goal 1: Objective 1 —VW Assistants assisting victims of any eligible crime
d Goal 2: Objective 1-VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
education of CJS 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
E Goal 2: Objective 1 -VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
Return of Victim's Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in final disposition letter
property 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
Goal 2: Objective 1 -VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
Notification of the Goal 3: Objective 2- information contained in VRA Letters
status of the case 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 Goal 2: Objective 1-VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
Intercession for Goal 3: Objective 3- during the process of coordinating the trial
victim with employer, Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime when a victim wants to use their VRA right of
creditor coming to a court hearing
Goal 2: Objective 1 Goal 3: Objective 3;
translation services 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
Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 3;
secure court waiting Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime- The VW Assistants utilize four court house
room waiting rooms and one DA Office waiting rooms for the security and comfort of
victims and witnesses.
k Goal 2: Objective 1-VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
assistance during Goal 3: Objective 3-during the process of coordinating the trial
court appearances Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime when a victim attends a court hearing
I Goal 2: Objective 1-VW Assistants assisting domestic violence victims
protection of threats Goal 3: Objective 3- during the process of coordinating the trial
of harm/intimidation Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime when a victim attends a court hearing
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14. Will this project utilize volunteers and or interns? X Yes n No
If yes, please answer the following:
4 Number of volunteers/interns which were utilized from July 1, 2011 through
December 31, 2011.
313.75 Number of volunteer/intern hours from July 1, 2011 through December 31,
2011.
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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 2010
United States census indicates the county population at 252,825, a 39.7 % increase from 2000 to 2010.
The Hispanic population of 71,802 is 28.4% of the total population. There are 31 incorporated towns in
Weld County. The county seat and principal city, Greeley, is located in the west central part of the county
and contains 37% of the county's population of 92,889, according to the 2010 census. 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 VICTIMS SERVED VICTIMS SERVED PROJECTION OF
1 YEAR 1 YEAR SIX MONTHS VICTIMS TO SERVE
July 1, 2009 July 1, 2010 July 1, 2011 July 1, 2012
Through Through Through Through
June 30, 2010 June 30, 2011 December 30, 2011 June 30, 2013
2467 2494 1132 2300
b) 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.
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 Advocates from LE and DA's Office discuss and coordinate victims to
Services 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 Advocates meet quarterly to discuss domestic violence projects in Weld
County, strategize victim safety plans and provide training. AWP
Assistant Director, County Court VW Assistant and DA Victim Services
Director meet at least two times a month to review DV Fast Track cases
and victim outreach. We refer victims to A Woman's Place Legal
Advocacy Program which is located in the courthouse to obtain civil
protection orders. The positive relationship and trust is invaluable when
making referrals to each other's agencies.
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.
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b) Is your agency an active participant in Weld County's Coordinating Committee for Victims of
Crime? (CCVC)? If"yes," provide the name 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
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, CCVC - Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime (Holden-Chair), and has a quarterly
Advocate meeting with A Woman's Place. 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.
•
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SECTION E - VICTIM COMPENSATION:
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 El 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 n No
Date of the last training: Entire VW Unit 9-13-10,
Person who conducted the training: Karol Patch
14 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.
VALE USE ONLY
Reviewed Victim Compensation Coordinator
Comments:
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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 n 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 18th
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 n No
c) VRA Training
Date of the last training: 9-13-10
Person who conducted the training for the entire office, attorneys and support staff.
Kelly Kissell, Division of Criminal Justice and JoAnn Holden
14 Number of Staff and Volunteers in your agency providing services to crime victims.
11 Number of Staff and Volunteers who attended the VRA Training.
6-21-2011 Dan Griffin, COVA Trainer, 4 VW Staff: VRA Notification Clerk , V/COMP Assistant,
2 VW Interns and three new office secretaries
10-10-2011 JoAnn Holden, 2 County Court VW Assistants, VRA Notification Clerk and entire
County Court Staff(7 attorneys and 6 support staff)
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 send 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 victims 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.
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
Yes, the Victim Rights Amendment Brochure is provided in English and Spanish.
f) If you agency does not have a brochure describing VRA, please indicate if your agency
utilizes brochures from other agencies. Non-applicable
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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, 2011 through December 31, 2011 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.
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 is less than projected. The case
disposition rate is higher than projected.
Felony DV Victims—The overall victim contact prior to defendant's Advisement Hearing is lower than
projected.
Gang crime Victims - The number of victims of gang crime is higher than projected.
VRA Letters -The number of VRA letters sent to victim is less than projected.
Victims and Witnesses Called Off- Projections for the number called off, is higher than projected.
Survey approval — is higher than the goal.
Trial Support -the number of trials is on target.
20. a)What is the projected cost per client served (cost/benefit ratio)?
$54.67 per VRA victim to be served
b) How did you calculate this figure?
Calculated: VALE Request of$125,755 : 2300 victims = $54.67
21. What is the number of victim surveys you sent out in 2011 and number received back?
Attach a survey giving overall client response which indicates overall success rate.
During 2011, 2217 VW Unit Program Surveys were sent to victims.
36 surveys were completed for a return rate of 1.6 %.
Overall approval rate is 87%. Comments are attached on the survey in Attachments
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SECTION H - BUDGETARY INFORMATION:
All Budget pages MUST be completed.
22.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.
23. 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.
24. 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.
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BUDGET INFORMATION
TOTAL AGENCY VICTIM SERVICES
Please indicate the sources for ALL funding your agency receives for victim services.
FUNDING START DATE END DATE
AMOUNT Month/Day/Year Month/Day/Year
VALE Grant (if applicable) 119,000 07 / 01 / 11 06 / 30 / 12
DCJ Consolidated Grant 51,598 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
VOCA or VAWA or
State VALE
Grant (if applicable) / / / /
Other— VALE Admin 87,863 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
Other— COMP Admin 59,847 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
Other— County Funding 340,831 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
TOTAL 659,139 / / / /
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 present state of funding, the VW Unit will be downsizing 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:
52% =Weld County Commissioners
13% =VALE Administration funds
9% =COMP Administration funds
8%=VAWA Grant
18%=VALE Grant
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VALE PROJECT BUDGET INFORMATION
PROJECT FUNDS REQUESTED BUDGET:
Continuation Applicants fill out Columns I, 2, and 3. ROUND TO THE NEAREST DOLLAR
New Applicants fill out Column 2 only.
Continuation Applicants ALL APPLICANTS Continuation
(Column 1) (Column 2) Applicants
(Column 3)
Current Grant Award Requested Budget Increase or
Decrease
PERSONNEL PERSONNEL (+/-)
Job Position Job Position/NAME
VW Director(Holden) 26,452 VW Director(Holden) 29,290 +2838
VW Assistant(Lopez) 25,086 VW Assistant(Lopez) 36,656 +11,570
VW DVFT/Cty Intern(Murky) 12,290 VW DVFT/Cty Intern(Murley) 13,182 + 892 _
VW Clerical(Sutliff) 15,086 VW Clerical (Sutliff) 16,062 + 976
VW Assistant(Joseph) 9,992 -9,992
Fringe Benefits 30,094 Fringe Benefits 30,565 + 471
Subtotal 119,000 Subtotal 125,755 +6755
SUPPLIES AND OPERATING SUPPLIES& OPERATING EXPENSES (+/-)
EXPENSES
Subtotal Subtotal
IN-STATE TRAVEL IN-STATE TRAVEL (+/-)
Subtotal Subtotal
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES (+/-)
Subtotal Subtotal
TOTAL FUNDS: 119,000 TOTAL FUNDS REQUESTED: 125,755 +6755
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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: I 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 show 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
Position\Name Cost % Funding the entire position,what other SOURCE
Requested Requested will be used to pay for the rest of the
position
VW Director(Holden) 1 104,829 38% 39,835 VALE &Comp Admin Funds
Some County funds
VW Assistant(Lopez) 1 66,982 81% 54,045 VALE Admin Funds(although limited)
VW DVFT/Cty Intern .5 14,368 100% 14,368 VALE Admin Funds(although limited,
(Murley) may need to delete position if not VALE
funded)
VW Clerical (Sutliff) .625 17,507 100% 17,507 VALE Admin Funds(although limited,
may need to delete position if not VALE
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: $39,835 (S: $29,290 B:$10,545)
The County presently funds 18% of the salary and benefits for this position (last year County funded 14%).
All other funding is presently obtained through VALE or COMP Administration funds and grants. All funding
for this position is presently obtained through VALE Administration funds, some COMP Administrative funds
and the VALE Grant. 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.
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.
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Name of and Title of Person: Rose Lopez,District Court Victim Witness Assistant
VALE Cost: $54,045 (S: $36,656 B: $17,389)
Works 40 hours a week. Benefits: FICA, Medicare, Health, Life, Disability, Retirement
All funding for this position is presently obtained through VALE Administration funds and the VALE Grant.
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.
Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Lopez to provide direct victim support
to victims to a felony criminal division 12 and Spanish speaking victims in other divisions.
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: $14,368 (S: $13,182 B: $1186)
Works 20 hours a week at $12.55 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.
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: Ruth Sutliff, Victim Witness Unit Receptionist
VALE Cost: $17,507 (S: $16,062 B: $1,445)
Works 25 hours a week at $12.23 per hour, benefits FICA, Medicare, Life, Disability
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.
Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Sutliff to perform first line response to
victim phone calls and victims coming to the office, processing of Victim Rights' Notification Sentencing
Outcome letters with Post Sentencing Notification Brochures, and support to the VALE Administrator.
RECEPTIONIST/CLERICAL QUALIFICATIONS: Minimum of two years of experience in office,
clerical, or other public contact work as required by the position, OR any equivalent combination of education
and experience. Working knowledge of personal computer.
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
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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 in proposed funding.
County Commissioners granted a 2% cost of living increase which County employees have not received since
2009. Additionally, due to the economic downturn in 2008,the Weld County Retirement Plan was
underfunded. To rectify this situation, the Weld County Commissioners increased the County's retirement
contribution from 9% to 10.75%.
JOANN HOLDEN— increase of $2838 due to higher cost of health insurance& retirement and the 2% cost
of living increase. This position is funded by the VALE Grant, VALE Administration funds, some County
funds and a small portion of COMP Administrative funds.
ROSE LOPEZ— increase is due to higher cost of health insurance & retirement. She received a 2% Cost of
Living, and will receive a 3% step increase in March 2012. Due to the necessity to downsize a VW Assistant
position, VALE funding requested in the past for the position that was downsized has been transferred to
Rose's position which is totally funded by the VALE Grant and VALE Administration funds. No county
funds have been used for this position in the past so any increases given to county employees have to be
absorbed. Total increase with the transfer of funding of$13,856 for the position that was downsized is
$17,155.
STEPHANIE MURLEY — increase of$892 due to the cost of living increase and slight increase of FICA and
MEDICARE. This position is totally funded by the VALE Grant so any increases given to county employees
have to be absorbed. This hourly employee does not receive step increases so has not had a raise since 2009.
RUTH SUTLIFF— increase of$976 due to the cost of living increase and slight increase of FICA and
MEDICARE. This position is totally funded by the VALE Grant so any increases given to county employees
have to be absorbed. This hourly employee does not receive step increases so has not had a raise since 2009.
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VALE Grant Application Signature Page
Applicant Agency: District Attorney's Office, 19'h Judicial District
Project Title: Victim Witness Assistance Unit
Grant Period: July 1,2012 to June 30,2013
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.
Project Director:
Name: JoAnn Holden Position/Title: Director of Victim Services
Agency(including Division or Unit): 19th Judicial District Attorney's Office, Victim Witness Assistance Unit
Mailing Address: PO Box 1167,Greeley,CO 80632
Phone: 970 356-4010 Fax: 970 52-8 23 EFMail: jholden@co.weld.co.us
Signature: �PC� Date: c)'02,)-- I Z
Financial Officer:
Name: Barbara Connoll 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 Fa //1970 352-0242 E-Mail: bconnolly@co.weld.co.us
Signature: .�.�oj4 .and I Date: FEB 2 9 2012
Authorized Official:
Name: Sean P. Conway 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: 970 336-7204 Fax: 970 352-0242 E-Mail: sconway@co.weld.co.us
Signature: r---3- 2 � Date: FEB 2 9 2012
In accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes 24-72-202.6,information supplied in this application is considered a public record.
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cgtic'- O5fl
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 1 67, Gree , C CU 8 63()
SIGNATURE: /�� DATE: J- - 9
COPIES OF THE S UTES DESCRIBED WILL BE PROVIDED TO PROSPECTIVE
GRANT RECIPIENTS UPON REQUEST.
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