HomeMy WebLinkAbout20110556 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, 2011, and ending
June 30, 2012, 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 28th day of February, A.D., 2011.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
D COUNTY, CO ORADO
ATTEST: ,, /e�►:
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.. a Kirkmeyer Chair
Weld County Clerk to the Board ,1861 ('1 -;1 t &s t /7
�r �Tr. ` a . I=Y, Pro Tem
BY: GLLIYw �®���~'
Deputy Clerk to the Board F.
( 2
F. Garcia
APP AS M: Jg
David E. mach ounty Attorney rco \� C ll
Douglas Kade r
Date of signature: c
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OYiS }U T oW1 1 Q,C. '. D1\ 2011-0556
J/B SI I I 3-11 - 1 I DA0023
Application page 1
SECTION A - AGENCY INFORMATION: VALE USE ONLY
1. APPLICANT AGENCY: District Attorney's Office, 19th Judicial District Grant#:
Amount Requested:
Program Name: Victim Witness Assistance Unit Amount Funded:
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 X4747
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 (i.e., governmental, private-non-profit, or private-for-profit):
governmental
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 Rights' victims. District Attorney's
Office has more mandated VRA duties than any other agency. The Victim Witness Assistance Unit
completes these VRA mandated and the statutory duties (VALE and Victims Compensation) and
additionally provides services to witnesses all victims of crimes as they move through the Criminal
Justice.
6. FUNDS REQUESTED: $120,000
ITEMS 1 - 6 MUST REMAIN ON THIS PAGE
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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 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 six 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
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judges tremendously impacts 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 six years. The Weld County District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit has undergone
many changes and added responsibilities as we continue to move 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). In 2009, our Juvenile Unit consisting which now consists of two Deputy DAs
handling over 1100 cases a year, for the first time in the history of the VW Assistance Unit had a
dedicated 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 and thereby promptly placing 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. Although all the District VW Assistants handle
the crimes against children cases in their respective divisions, the VW Unit has a VW Assistant assigned
to the gang cases which is important for continuity of the gang cases since the defendants, victims and
witnesses in one case could be involved as a party in another gang case.
Additional VW Unit personnel was not requested in 2010. 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 the 2011 Budget.
Beginning January 2010, and for the first time in the history of the Victim Witness Unit,there is an
adequate number of Victim Witness Staff to support the caseload.
9. RESPONSIBLE PARTIES: List the two individuals who are responsible for ensuring the grant is
administrated as proposed by the organization and approved by the VALE Board.
Person Title Phone Email
1) JoAnn Holden Director of Victim Services 970 356-4010 jholdenaco.weld.co.us
2) Michael Rourke Assistant District Attorney 970 356-4010 mrourke@co.weld.co.us
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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
310 Child Physical Abuse Adults Molested as Children
86 Child Sexual Abuse 8 Survivors of Homicide Victims
36 DUI/DWI —Victims of vehicular assault or 40 Robbery
homicide, DUI/DWI crashes, or careless
driving resulting in death
970 Domestic Violence 566 Assault
Other violent crimes: Kidnapping,
34 Adult Sexual Assault 276
Attempted Murder, Menacing, Stalking,
Retaliation, Intimidation, Tampering,
62 Elder Abuse (including economic 200 Other, please specify: Burglary of a
exploitation and fraud crimes) Dwelling, Indecent Exposure, VOP SA
Case, At Risk Juveniles
TOTAL UNDUPLICATED VICTIMS ESTIMATED TO BE SERVED DURING THE 12-MONTH PERIOD 2,588
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 690 Information/ Referral (in person)
1300 Criminal Justice Support/ 1698 Information/ Referral (by phone)
Advocacy/Court Accompaniment
472 Crisis/Counseling Intervention (in person) 96 Language Services (interpretation)
64 Crisis/Counseling Intervention (by phone) Shelter/Safehouse
28 Emergency Financial Assistance Transitional Housing
798 Follow-up (in person, by phone, or written) Transportation
Forensic Exam 2,588 Victim Compensation Assistance
(required)
Group Treatment/ Support 141 Victim/Survivor Advocacy
Hospital/Clinic Response 2,588 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.
Goals should be clear, concise, general statements that highlight what the project intend to achieve.
They should relate to the Project Description and Budget pages of the Application.
Objectives (no more than three per goal) should be quantifiable (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. 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 project's 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, 2012, provide services to 800 primary victims of misdemeanor domestic
violence and 170 primary victims of felony domestic violence.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2012, have "meaningful consultation"with 80% 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, 2012, have contact with 68% of the primary domestic violence victims (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 direct assistance to victims of gang violence including 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, 2012, provide services to 75 primary victims.
Objective 2. Attend quarterly GANG Trainings which enhance law enforcement and District Attorney's
Office knowledge in Weld County regarding gang offenders being placed on Parole, new gang activities,
new gangs coming into the area and report on trainings.
GOAL 4: Provide victim and witness services: VRA notifications, court hearing call offs and
Trial support.
Objective 1. By June 30, 2012, send 21,000 VRA Notification letters to victims.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2012, call off 2300 victims and witnesses (non-officers)to avoid them traveling
to court to testify in a hearing.
Objective 3. By June 30, 2012, provide trial support for 230 trials; District Court 70 trials; County Court
125 trials, and Juvenile 35 trials.
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GOAL 5: Collaborate with Law Enforcement Agencies, Probation, and Victim Service Agencies to
coordinate efforts in serving victims, responding to victim client feedback on service.
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. Have VW Unit staff attend trainings when possible (monetarily and scheduling). Have VW
Unit staff participated in trainings when requested. 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. No problems are anticipated.
How do you plan to resolve these problems? N/A
13. Services as defined in the V.A.L.E. statute, 24-4.2-105 (4) (a—m) C.R.S.
a) Indicate YES for services which are indicated in the Goals and Objectives of this application, and
NO for services NOT indicated in the Goals and Objectives of this application.
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 (0 Notification to the victim of the progress of the investigation,
the defendant's arrest, subsequent bail determinations, and 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.
(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;
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b) For each YES listed in 13 a), reference the Goal and Objective that relates to the service
provided.
List letter(a—m) List Goal and Objective(s) pertaining to the service provided in your GOALS and
which refers to 13.a OBJECTIVES.
a Goal 2: Objective 1, Objective 2; Objective 3; Goal 3: Objective 1;
Goal 1: Objective 1 especially crimes involving murder, child sexual assault
c Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
d Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 2, Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
e Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 2, Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 2, Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
g Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
k Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
Goal 2: Objective 1; Goal 3: Objective 1; Goal 4: Objective 3;
Goal 1: Objective 1 —any crime
14. Will this project utilize volunteers and or interns? X Yes ❑No
If yes, please answer the following:
1 Number of volunteers/interns which were utilized from July 1, 2010 through
December 31, 2010.
_42 Number of volunteer/intern hours from July 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010.
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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
United States Census Bureau estimates the county population was 254,759 in 2009, a 40.9% increase
from April 1, 2000 to July1, 2009. The Hispanic population of 70,313 is 27.6%. 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 almost most of the county's population which was estimated at 89,046 in 2006.
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, 2008 July 1, 2009 July 1, 2010 July 1, 2011
Through Through Through Through
June 30, 2009 June 30, 2010 December 30, 2010 June 30, 2012
2496 2467 1332 2588
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.
AGENCY HOW YOU COORDINATE
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 Advocates meet quarterly to discuss domestic violence projects in
Weld County, strategize victim safety plans and provide training.
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.
5 Catholic Charties DA VA contact agency monthly 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 Attend 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 the Northern Colorado Sex Offender Task Force, SART
(Sexual Assault Resource 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 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 DA Lobby. VW
Assistants also help victims complete application forms and refers 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: 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 18`h
Judicial District Attorney's Office. She was a committee member of the Constitutional Amendment
Training Committee and 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 is presently providing input on language in the VRA
Enabling Legislation which needs to be amended. The information Holden has gleaned from her
involvement with the Victims' Rights Amendment 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: 9-13-10
Person who conducted the training: 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.
d) How does your agency notify victims of their rights under VRA?
The Victim Witness Assistance Unit receives new cases with charges covered under the Victims' Rights
Amendment. 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.
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e) Does your agency have a brochure describing VRA? X Yes ❑ 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. See SECTION I ATTACHMENTS. DO NOT INCLUDE VICTIM
COMPENSATION BROCHURES.
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 primarily meeting the goals and objectives as outlined in
quarterly reports for the first six months of the grant cycle:
Number of Victims Served -The number of victims served should exceed the projected number
Victim Services - Some of the service areas are less than projected (down 12%). We should be on
target by the end of the grant cycle.
DV Fast Track Program - Projections for the number of misdemeanor domestic violence victims, is
presently 2% less than projected. The victim contact rate and case disposition rates are on target.
VRA Letters -The number of VRA letters sent to victim is exceeding the projection by 16%.
Victims and Witnesses Called Off- Projections for the number called off, is presently 34% less than
projected. The projected number was based on the number of call offs the previous year.
Restitution Assistance - Projections for the number of victims assisted, is presently 16% less than
projected. The projected number was based on the number of restitution assistance the previous year.
20. a)What is the projected cost per client served (cost/benefit ratio)? How did you calculate this
figure?
2588 VRA victims to be served VALE Request- $120,000
Calculated: $120,000 : 2588 victims= $46.36
SECTION H - BUDGETARY INFORMATION:
All Budget pages MUST be completed.
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 the Director of Finance and Administration 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.
Weld County Government has financial policies and procedures in place; accounting internal controls
such as separation of duties, two signatures on certain checks, and reconciliations
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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) 120,000.00 07 / 01 / 10 06 / 30 / 11
DCJ Consolidated Grant 50,390.00 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
VOCA or VAWA or
State VALE
Grant (if applicable) / / / /
Other— VALE Admin 98,430.00* 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
Other— COMP Admin 71,400.00* 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
Other— County Funding 294,075.00 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
TOTAL 634,295.00 01 / 01 / 11 12 / 31 / 11
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 Victim Witness Coordinator 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 have been decreasing. *Although the figures above are what are needed
for 2011 salaries and benefits,the projected income for Administrative dollars in 2011 is actually:
$80,572 for VALE and $59,576 for COMP. Reserve dollars are being used in 2011 to make up the
difference for COMP Admin dollars. VALE Admin. dollars will be depleted by the fall of 2011.
The DA's Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit staff's salaries and benefits are presently funded:
46% =Weld County Commissioners
16%=VALE Administration funds
11%=COMP Administration funds
8%=VAWA Grant
19% =VALE Grant
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VALE PROJECT BUDGET INFORMATION
PROJECT FUNDS REQUESTED BUDGET:
Continuation Applicants fill out Columns 1, 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) 26,452 0.00
VW Assistant(Lopez) 20,000 VW Assistant(Lopez) 25,086 +5,086
Cty DV FT VW—(Hammer) 6,300 -6,300
VW DVFT/Cty Intern(Murky) 13,382 VW DVFT/Cty Intern(Murley) 12,790 - 592
VW Clerical(Sutliff) 16,386 VW Clerical(Sutliff) 15,586 - 800
VW Assistant(Joseph) 9,992 VW Assistant(Joseph) 9,992 0.00
Fringe Benefits 27,488 Fringe Benefits 30,094 +2,606
Subtotal 120,000 Subtotal 120,000 0.00
SUPPLIES AND OPERATING SUPPLIES& OPERATING EXPENSES (+I-)
EXPENSES
Subtotal Subtotal
IN-STATE TRAVEL IN-STATE TRAVEL (+/-)
Subtotal Subtotal
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PROFESSIONAL SERVICES (+/-)
Subtotal Subtotal
TOTAL FUNDS: 120,000.00 TOTAL FUNDS REQUESTED: 120,000 0.00
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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: 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 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 99,907 38% 38,338 VALE&Comp Admin Funds
Some County funds
VW Assistant(Lopez) 1 61,177 60% 36,890 VALE Admin Funds(although limited)
VW DVFT/Cty Intern ,5 13,872 100% 13,872 VALE Admin Funds(although limited,
(hurley) may need to delete position if not VALE
funded)
VW Clerical(Sutliff) .625 16,912 100% 16,912 VALE Admin Funds(although limited,
may need to delete position if not VALE
funded)
VW Assistant(Joseph) 1 52,857 26% 13,988 County budget funds.75 of the position
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: $38,338 (S: $26,452 B:$11,886)
The County presently funds 14%of the salary and benefits for this position. All other funding is presently
obtained through VALE or COMP Administration funds and grants. The VALE Administration funds were
down 5%from 2008 to 2009. These funds basically remained the same from 2009 to 2010. The expectation is
the funds will remain the same or slightly decrease in 2011.
Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Holden to provide supervision of the
Victim Witness Assistance Unit, Administrative 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: $36,890 (S: $25,086 B: $11,804)
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. These funds basically remained the same
from 2009 to 2010. The expectation is the funds will remain the same or slightly decrease in 2011.
Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Lopez to provide direct victim support
to victims of: juvenile crimes, gang motivated crimes, murders, and Spanish-speaking only victims, as well as
back up for County Court and District Court VW Assistants.
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: $13,872 (S: $12,790 B: $1,082)
All funding for this position is obtained through the VALE Grant. VALE Administrative dollars are presently
not available; the VALE Administration funds were down 5% from 2008 to 2009. These funds basically
remained the same from 2009 to 2010. The expectation is the funds will remain the same or slightly decrease
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: $16,912 (S: $15,586 B: $1,326)
All funding for this position is obtained through the VALE Grant. VALE Administrative dollars are presently
not available; the VALE Administration funds were down 5% from 2008 to 2009. These funds basically
remained the same from 2009 to 2010. The expectation is the funds will remain the same or slightly decrease
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.
Name of and Title of Person: Koree Joseph,District Court Victim Witness Assistant
VALE Cost: $13,988 (S: $9,992 B: $3,996)
The position began in 2009 as 20 hours a week funded by the County. In 2009, VALE grant funding was
approved for 10 hours a week. In 2010,the County funded the additional 10 hours to make this position a full
time position.VALE Administrative dollars are presently not available; the VALE Administration funds were
down 5% from 2008 to 2009. These funds basically remained the same from 2009 to 2010. The expectation is
the funds will remain the same or slightly decrease in 2011.
20
Duties to be performed\project activities: Grant funding will enable Joseph to provide direct victim support
to victims to a felony criminal division 12.
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.
B. SUPPLIES AND OPERATING REQUEST: All supplies and operating requests must be specific,
itemized costs related to victim services.
N/A
C. IN-STATE TRAVEL REQUEST: Itemize travel expenses of project personnel by purpose
N/A
D. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES REQUEST: List consultants or independent contractors who
will provide victim services under the grant.
N/A
E. DIFFERENCES FROM LAST YEAR'S REQUEST (Continuation Applicants only).
If this is an application for continuing funding, explain any changes in proposed funding.
The total amount of funding requested has not changed. Some of the funding was redistributed as
reflected on the VALE PROJECT BUDGET INFORMATION sheet.
21
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, Greele CO 806 2
SIGNATURE: DATE: _ 041' I
COPIES OF THE ST TES DESCRIBED WILL BE PROVIDED TO PROSPECTIVE
GRANT RECIPIENTS UPON REQUEST.
22
VALE Grant Application Signature Page
Applicant Agency: District Attorney's Office, 19th Judicial District
Project Title: Victim Witness Assistance Program
Grant Period: July 1,2011 to June 30,2012
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: 970 356-401 Fax: 7 352- 02 E a' : jholden@co.weld.co.us J
Signature: Date:
Financial Officer:
Name: Barbara Conn ly 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 Fax: 970 352-0242/ E-Mail: bconnolly@co.weld.co.us
Signature: K� t tJ? (27,n424__ a/-Date: 19/49 sift
Authorized Official: (f
Name: Barbara Kirkmeyer 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 6-7204 Fax: 7 352-0242 E-Mail: bkirkmeyer@co.weld.co.us
Signal • ' �(i( /ZLG�� C� Date: 2/211
7
In accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes 24-72-202.6,information supplied in this application is considered a public record.
23
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