HomeMy WebLinkAbout20090494RESOLUTION
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, 2009, and ending
June 30, 2010, 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 25th day of February, A.D., 2009.
ATTEST:
Weld County Clerk to the B
BY
Dept' Cler
PRO'
o"to the Boar
ounty Attorney
Date of signature. _3111 1a?
BOARD OF COUNTY C
ELC
NTY.,CO
Iliam F. Garcia, Chair
MISSIONERS
DO
Douglas a.emac' er, Pro-Tem
Seam P. Conway
BrKirk� er
David E. Long
60 0.A c 1 e-ci)
2009-0494
DA0022
03 /0q
2009-2010 VALE ASSISTANCE FUNDS
19th Judicial District, Weld County
Application page 1
SECTION A - AGENCY INFORMATION:
1. APPLICANT AGENCY: District Attorney's Office, 19th Judicial District
Program Name: Victim Witness Assistance Unit
Street Address (if not confidential):
915 Tenth Street
Greeley, CO 80632
Mailing Address (if different):
PO Box 1167
Greeley, CO 80632
Phone: 970 356-4010
Fax: 970 352-8023
E -Mail: jholden@co.weld.co.us
2. CONTACT PERSON: JoAnn Holden
Title: Director of Victim Services, District Attorney's Office
Phone: 970 356-4010 X4747
Fax: 970 352-8023
E -Mail: jholden@co.weld.co.us
VALE USE ONLY
Grant #:
Amount Requested:
Amount Funded:
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. The Victim Witness
Assistance Unit completes these mandated and statutory duties and additionally provides services to
witnesses all victims of crimes as they move through the Criminal Justice.
6. FUNDS REQUESTED: $120,784
1
2009-0494
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 14 staff (11.75 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 their mandated services which include: providing Victim Rights Amendment notifications, and
soliciting victim impact\restitution statements. Additionally the program provides victims with information,
relevant education, crisis counseling, criminal justice assistance, personal support, HIV notices, and court
support either as a witness or to invoke their VRA rights.
The quality and quantity of Victim Witness staff contacts with victims has improved noticeably turning the
past four years as the role of a Victim Witness Assistant has changed from providing reactive service with
no continuity to being with the victim from the initial filing of charges through 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 Cty Court VW Assistant Intern in 2006) and
the County Commissioners (1 FTE in 2006 -VW Assistant, 1 FTE in 2007 VW Assistant, 1 FTE in 2008
Restitution Clerk and .5 FTE in 2009). Our Juvenile Unit consisting of three Deputy DAs (was two), for
the first time has a dedicated VW Assistant, Koreen Joseph with the addition of the half-time Victim
Witness Assistant approved by the County Commissioners for 2009.
The 19th Judicial District has had a dedicated misdemeanor domestic violence court since September
2001. In February 2005, Victim Witness Assistants added a step of "meaningful consultation" with the
victim prior to the court hearing in the afternoon. Our initial victim contact rate has 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. Regardless of the disposition at the initial court hearing, victims
have more immediate victim assistance contact which provides much needed resources to those most
vulnerable.
Weld County continues to add judges handling criminal dockets: 2005 District Court Judge added, 2006
County Court Judge added, in 2007 a half time criminal docket District Court Judge, and in 2008 the half
2
time criminal docket judge increased to full time. Addition of judges increases workloads for the District
Attorney's Office including the Victim Witness Assistance Program who must cover even more
courtrooms simultaneously.
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 felony
crimes against children cases. The Deputy DA in the specialized dockets have cases in all four criminal
divisions. VW Assistant Rose Young is assigned to the Division 12 docket, but covers gang -related
cases in all four divisions which is difficult. There is presently not a VW Assistant assigned to the Deputy
DA handling the felony crimes against children cases, which as been requested. The 2009 - 2010 VALE
Grant request is responding to the adapting to the Specialized Dockets by asking for additional
dollars to fund the second half of the .5 FTE approved by the County Commissioners for 2009.
Having the ability to make the position full time, will allow a VW Assistant to be assigned to the
four criminal courtrooms 3, 4, 11, and 12 and create a "rover VW Assistant" who will cover the
specialized dockets of gang related cases, felony crimes against children cases and manage the
Juvenile caseload.
9. 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 Jo Ann 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.
10. Who will provide the proposed services? Will volunteers be utilized? (Include a description
of duties, qualifications, training, etc. in the response.)
Jo Ann Holden, Director of Victim Services Program
Grant funding will enable Holden to provide supervision of the Victim Witness Assistance Unit,
Administrative duties, and direct victim support.
Rose Lopez, District Court Victim Witness Assistant
Grant funding will enable Lopez to provide direct victim support to victims of: juvenile crimes, gang
motivated crimes, felony crimes against children, Spanish-speaking only victims, as well as back up for
County Court and District Court VW Assistants.
Koree Joseph, District Court Victim Witness Assistant
Grant funding will enable Joseph to provide direct victim support to victims to a felony criminal division.
Laurie Hammer, County Court Victim Witness Assistant
Grant funding will enable Hammer to perform the daily duties of the DV Fast Track Program which
includes direct victim contact, support in court, follow-up information with victims, and trial support.
Additionally, will be able to provides direct victim support of all other County Court cases (Careless
Resulting in Death, other VRA cases, traffic and non-VRA cases) Court Assistance Program, restitution,
and victim and witness call offs.
Stephanie Murley, County Court Victim Witness Assistant Intern
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.
Ruth Sutliff, Victim Witness Unit Receptionist
Grant funding will enable Sutliff to perform first line response to victim phone calls and victims coming to
the office and processing of Victim Rights' Notification returned mail.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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SECTION C - GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:
(Goal 1, objectives 1 and 2, are mandatory for all applicants.)
11. GOAL 1 (standard): This project will provide direct services that assist crime victims with emotional
and physical needs to stabilize their lives, provide a measure of safety and security, and/or enhance
victims' experience with the criminal justice system.
• OBJECTIVE 1 (standard): To provide services to the following estimated unduplicated number of
crime victims during the 12 -month grant period. (Note: Count each victim only once based upon
predominant crime type.)
Definitions:
Victims: primary and secondary victims
Primary victim: The person against whom the crime was committed, except in the case of homicide, and DUI/DWI
deaths where the primary victims are the survivors of the victim. In domestic violence crimes, children of the primary
victims (who is receiving services) are also considered to be primary victims.
Secondary Victims: Persons other than primary victims receiving services because of their own reaction or needs
resulting from a crime.
Unduplicated Count: New and continuing victims being served by the project during the first year of the grant
period, continuing victim is a person served in a prior grant year who is continuing to receive services in the new year.
EST. NO.
VICTIMS
TYPE OF CRIME
EST. NO.
VICTIMS
TYPE OF CRIME
282
Child Physical Abuse
n/a
Adults Molested as Children
52
Child Sexual Abuse
42
Survivors of Homicide Victims
12
DUI/DWI — Victims of vehicular assault or
homicide, DUI/DWI crashes, or careless
driving resulting in death
72
Robbery
1000
Domestic Violence
910
Assault
112
Adult Sexual Assault
72
Other violent crimes such as hate and
bias crime, gang violence (specify).
78
Elder Abuse (including economic
exploitation and fraud crimes)
4606
Other, please specify
Victims of non-VRA crimes
TOTAL UNDUPLICATED VICTIMS ESTIMATED TO BE SERVED DURING THE 12 -MONTH PERIOD
7238
5
• OBJECTIVE 2 (standard): To provide the following types of services to the following estimated number
of unduplicated victims during the 12 -month grant period.
EST. NO.
VICTIMS
SERVICES
EST. NO.
VICTIMS
SERVICES
234
Crisis Counseling
38
Emergency Financial Assistance
1102
Follow-up
Emergency Legal Advocacy
Therapy
2632
Victim Compensation Assistance
(required)
Group Treatment / Support
604
Personal Advocacy
Shelter / Safehouse
3698
Telephone Contact (information/referral)
758
Information / Referral (in person)
Crisis Hotline Counseling
1398
Criminal Justice Support / Advocacy
104
Other (specify): travel, interpreter,
Spanish interpreter assistance
Definitions:
Crisis counseling (in person): Refers to in -person crisis intervention, emotional support, guidance and counseling
provided by advocates, counselors, mental health professionals, or peers. Such counseling may occur at the scene of
the crime, immediately after a crime, or be provided on an ongoing basis.
Follow-up: Refers to victim contacts, including: in -person contacts, telephone contacts, and written
communications with victims to offer emotional support, counseling, provide empathetic listening, check on a
victim's progress, etc.
Therapy: Refers to intensive professional psychological and/or psychiatric treatment for individuals, couples, and
family members arising from the occurrence of a crime. This includes the evaluation of mental health needs, as well
as the actual delivery of psychotherapy.
Group Treatment/Support: Refers to the coordination and provision of supportive group activities ;includes peer,
social support, etc.
Shelter/Safehouse: Refers to providing short- and long-term housing and related support services to victims and
families following victimization.
Information/Referral (in person): Refers to in -person contacts with victims during which time services and
available support are identified.
Criminal Justice Support/Advocacy: Refers to support, assistance, and advocacy provided to victims at any stage
of the criminal justice process, to include post -sentencing services and support.
Emergency Financial Assistance: Refers to cash outlays for transportation, food, clothing, emergency housing, etc.
Emergency Legal Advocacy: Refers to filing temporary restraining orders, injunctions and other protective orders,
elder abuse petitions, and child abuse petitions but does not include criminal prosecution or the employment of
attorneys for non -emergency purposes, such as custody disputes, civil suits, etc.
6
Victim Compensation Assistance (Required): Refers to making the victim aware of the Crime Victim
Compensation Fund. May also include providing assistance with completing the required forms, gathering the
needed documentation, etc. in addition to follow-up contact with the Victim Compensation agency on behalf of the
victim.
Personal Advocacy: Refers to assisting victims in securing rights, remedies, and services from other agencies;
locating emergency financial assistance, intervening with employers, creditors, and others on behalf of the victim;
assisting in filing for losses covered by public and private insurance programs including workman's compensation,
unemployment benefits, welfare, etc.; accompanying the victim to the hospital; etc.
Telephone Contact: Refers to contacts with victims during which time services and available support are identified.
Crisis Hotline Counseling: Crisis or information and referral calls received by an agency's hotline or office
telephone.
Unduplicated Count: Estimate the number and type of services to all new victims being served by the VOCA project
once during the first year of the grant period. Victims from a previous grant year who are continuing to receive services
may be counted once in the l' quarter of this report.
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12. 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 intends to achieve. They
should relate to the Project Description and Budget pages of the Application.
Objectives (no more than three per goal) should be 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 misdemeanor domestic violence.
Objective 1. By June 30, 2010, services will be provided to 950 victims; 460 will be underserved victims
of: rural areas, elderly, cultural, language, ethnic minority or disabled.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2010, have "meaningful consultation" with 80% of misdemeanor domestic
violence victims the next working day after the crime which should result in a 35% disposition rate. On a
quarterly basis, provide a summary of results.
GOAL 3. Provide direct assistance to victims of Specialized Dockets:
Objective 1. By June 30, 2010, services will be provided to 50 victims of gang -related cases.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2010, services will be provided to 70 victims of felony crimes against children.
Objective 3. By June 30, 2010, services will be provided to 149 victims of juvenile offenders.
GOAL 4: Provide services (duplicated count) to: VRA notifications, Victim and Witness court
hearing call off and Resitution Assistance.
Objective 1. By June 30, 2010, 20,000 VRA Notification letters will be send to victims.
Objective 2. By June 30, 2010, 2856 Victims and Witnesses (non -officers) will be called off from
traveling to court to testify in a hearing.
Objective 3. By June 30, 2010, 1500 victims will receive restitution assistance.
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, and Catholic Charities. 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 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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Cont - PROJECT -SPECIFIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES:
13. What problems do you anticipate in implementing your program's goals and objectives, if
any?
The Victim Witness Assistance Program has received support of the District Attorney, Weld County
Commissioners, and Victim Services Grants in increasing financial support and added staff. The Victim
Witness Assistance Program has been able to provide more services to more victims and witnesses with
3.5 additional FTE from the County (from 2005 to present) and a part-time County Court VW Assistant
Intern provided by a VALE Grant. The challenge continues to deal with the growth of Weld County. Three
new judges have been added during the past three years (2005 District Court Judge, 2006 County Court
Judge, 2007-2008 District Court Judge). Additional courtrooms and Specialized dockets have a direct
impact on more staff needs in the District Attorney's Office including the Victim Witness Assistance Unit.
If the program's funding goals are achieved during the grant period, the Victim Witness Assistance
Program will continue to not only maintain but enhance its services. A major portion of the Victim
Witness Assistance Unit's funding is dependant on grant money to accomplish its overall goals.
14. How does the project address the victims and witnesses services need outlined in the V.A.L.E.
statute? Refer to C.R.S. 24-4.2-105 (4) (a — m).
C.R.S. 24-4.2-105 Subsection (4) lists various victim and witness services. The District
Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Unit provides many of these services. Services
directly involved with the project are:
(a) Provision of services of early crisis intervention - Provided when making initial
contact with victims, especially domestic violence, or cases involving a death of another
person — murder, vehicular homicide, careless driving resulting in death.
(c) Referral of victims to appropriate social service and victim compensation
programs and assistance in filling out forms for compensation - Provided by the
assigned Victim Witness Assistant throughout the existence of the criminal case.
(d) Education of victims and witnesses about the operation of the criminal justice
system - Provided by the assigned Victim Witness Assistant throughout the existence of
the criminal case.
(e) Assistance in prompt return of the victims' property — Coordinated by the assigned
Victim Witness Assistant at the conclusion of the case.
(f)
Notification to the victim of the progress of the defendant's arrest, subsequent bail
determination, and the status of the case - Provided by the assigned Victim Witness
Assistant throughout the existence of the criminal case and by the Victim Notification
Letter System.
(g) Intercession with the employers of victims - Provided by the assigned Victim Witness
Assistant when requested by the victim or identified to be an issue by the VW Assistant.
(h) Assistance to the elderly and to persons with disability in arranging transportation
to and from court - Coordinated by the assigned Victim Witness Assistant throughout
the existence of the criminal case when a victim is subpoenaed to testify.
(i) Translator Services -Spanish victims are assigned a bi-lingual Victim Witness Assistant
throughout the existence of the criminal case.
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0) Coordination of efforts to assure that victims have a secure place to wait before
testifying - Provided by the assigned Victim Witness Assistant throughout the existence
of the criminal case.
(k) Provision of counseling or assistance during court appearance when appropriate -
Assistance provided by the assigned Victim Witness Assistant throughout the existence
of the criminal case. Victim is given counseling referrals.
(I) Protection from threats of harm and other forms of intimidation - Provided by the
assigned Victim Witness Assistant throughout the existence of the criminal case.
10
SECTION D - SERVICE INFORMATION:
15. What is the population and geographic area targeted for service through this project?
Weld County, Colorado covers over 4,000 square miles, the third largest county in Colorado. The United
States Census Bureau estimates the county population was 243,750 in 2007, a 34.7% increase since
2000. 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; 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 people are in need of these services?
In 2008, the District Attorneys Office filed 17,723 cases: Felony — 2253; Juvenile — 1348;
Misdemeanor — 4155; Traffic — 9967. This represents around 7,000 primary and secondary victims.
Approximately one third of these victims (2,300) involve victims of VRA crimes.
b) How many people are presently being served?
in 2008, there were approximately 7,000 primary and secondary victims, one third of these victims (2,300)
involve victims of VRA crimes.
16. 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.
17. Document community support, coordination and networking by providing the following
information:
a) List the agencies whom your agency has an active memorandum of understanding or an
agreement regarding the coordination and provision of services. See SECTION I.
ATTACHMENTS
The District Attorney's Office Victim Assistance Program attends meetings, trainings, and contacts
representatives from the agencies listed below to provide victims with referrals and support.
The following agencies have signed the Weld County Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime
Coordination Agreement affirming their commitment to working together to facilitate the effective delivery
of services to victims: Weld County Probation Victim Services, c.a.r.e. - Child Advocacy and Resource
Educations, Area Agency on Aging, Colorado Legal Services, Weld County Law Enforcement Victim
Services Unit, Sexual Assault Survivor's Inc, 19th JD District Administrator's Office, Greeley Police
Department Victim Assistance, A Woman's Place, Catholic Charities, UNC Adult Survivors Advocacy
Program, A Kid's Place, Island Grove Treatment Center, Weld County Legal Services, and the District
Attorney's Office Victim Assistance Program.
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.
Jo Ann Holden, Director of Victim Services Chairs CCVC. Karol Patch, Victim Compensation Coordinator
is an active participate in CCVC. Both are involved in the Victim Awareness Day event each year (Patch
Chair for 2008 and 2009) as well as other projects, information gathering, and training sponsored by
CCVC.
11
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, the Courts, Clerk's Office,
Collections, Probation Department's Victim Assistance Program as well as judges when projects require
their input. The Victim Witness Assistance Program is involved with the local Domestic Violence
Coalition, Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime (Holden -Chair), and Catholic Charities (Patch -
Committee Member). Additionally, the Victim Witness Assistance Program coordinates victim services
with Victim Assistance Programs representing 21 law enforcement agencies as well as many victim
service agencies: A Kid's Place, UNC Adult Survivors Advocacy Program, Colorado Legal Services, A
Woman's Place, c.a.r.e - Child Advocacy and Resource Educations, Sexual Assault Survivor's Inc., Area
Agency on Aging, Weld County Legal Services, Colorado Legal Services and Catholic Charities. The
District Attorney's Office also provides complete administrative, legal and clerical support for the Crime
Victim Compensation Board and the VALE Board and to the individuals and organizations served by
these programs.
d) List the agency name(s) and person(s) who provided letter(s) of support (no more than
three) applicable to this specific grant funding request. See SECTION I. ATTACHMENTS
A Woman's Place — Ellen Szabo, Executive Director
Probation Victim Assistance — Sheri Mann, Coordinator of Victim Assistance
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SECTION E - VICTIM COMPENSATION:
Provide the following information concerning your agency's involvement with the Crime Victim
Compensation Program:
18. a) Does your agency regularly inform victims about Victim Compensation and help them to
apply when appropriate? YES
How? The Victim Witness Assistance Program provides information to victims concerning Crime Victim
Compensation by distributing Victim Compensation brochures (English and Spanish) and application
forms, referring to Victim Compensation in VRA Brochures, providing Victim Compensation Training at
law enforcement departments, victim service agencies and other local groups, explaining Victim
Compensation and helping victims to complete application forms.
The Victim Compensation Program, in the District Attorney's Office, responds to victims' requests for
applications, assistance in completing the application, facilitates the payment of emergency financial
assistance, processes completed applications for monthly Victim Compensation Board review, and
distributes award notices and compensation after Board Meetings.
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 staff is very
knowledgeable about compensation criteria.
c) Does your agency regularly conduct/receive Victim Compensation training for direct
services staff and volunteers? YES
If "yes," what was the date of the last training and who provided it?
Karol Patch, the Crime Victim Compensation Coordinator, provided training to the VW Staff on
April 9, 2008. Since the Crime Victim Compensation Program provides administrative support to the
program all Victim Witness Assistance Staff have knowledge regarding the program and any program
updates, questions, and concerns are continually reviewed at regularly scheduled staff meetings.
VALE USE ONLY
Reviewed Victim Compensation Coordinator
Comments:
13
SECTION F - VICTIM RIGHTS ACT:
19. 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
YES
If "yes",
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
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. 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?
YES. The District Attorney is mandated to inform victims of the critical stages of the court system, that
they have the right to be present at the critical stages of the court system and that they have the right to
speak at Bond Modification Hearings, Entry of Plea Negotiation, Sentencing and Modification of
Sentencing.
The following 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.
14
c) Provide the date of your last VRA training and who provided that training.
October 30, 2007, Paula Bragg, COVA Trainer, made a presentation to law enforcement agency, DA's
Office VW Staff and non-profit agencies.
December 2007, JoAnn Holden made three presentations to the entire staff of DA Office, attorneys,
secretaries, VW Staff
October 13, 2008, JoAnn Holden presented to County Court DA staff.
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.
e) Does your agency have a brochure describing VRA? 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
Non -applicable
VALE USE ONLY
15
SECTION G - EVALUATION:
How will you evaluate the effectiveness of this project?
20. 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. Projections surrounding the DV Fast Track Program regarding victim contact and
disposition rate has been less that projected. Statistics are reviewed quarterly to address what if any
issues should be corrected; detailed information is contained in the quarterly reports. The County Court
VW Assistant is assigned to misdemeanor domestic violence cases, and with the addition of a VW DV
Fast Track County Assistant more contact is now made and more support available with these victims.
During the past three 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.
21.Do you currently utilize a client survey? YES
If so, please attach a copy of your survey.
If you do not utilize a survey, how you do you plan to determine client satisfaction?
N/A
22. What is the projected cost per client served (cost/benefit ratio)? How did you calculate
this figure?
34,924 services (24,356 are duplicated services of VRA notifications, Victim and Witness Call offs, and
restitution assistance) will be provided by the District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance
Program to 7238 victims (VRA victims and non-VRA victims). The VALE request is $120,784 making the
cost per client $16.69.
CALCULATION $ 120,784 : 7238 = $16.69
SECTION H - BUDGETARY INFORMATION:
23. All Budget pages MUST be completed.
16
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)
91,300
07
/
01
/ 08
06
/ 30
/ 09
VAWA Grant (if applicable)
11,229
9 month fig
04
/
01
/ 09
12
/ 31
/ 09
VOCA Grant (if applicable)
35,418
01
/
01
/09
12 /
31
/09
Other VALE Admin
84,700
01
/
01
/09
01
/ 01 /
09
Other COMP Admin
80,576
01
/
01
/09
01
/ 01 /
09
Other County Funding
256,410
01
/
01
/09
01
/ 01 /
09
TOTAL
559,633
01
/
01
/09
01
/ 01 /
09
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 (especially federal funding) cannot be relied to
always be available.
17
VALE PROJECT BUDGET INFORMATION
PROJECT FUNDS REQUESTED BUDGET:
Continuation Applicants fill out Columns 1, 2, and 3.
New Applicants fill out Column 2 only.
ROUND TO THE NEAREST DOLLAR
Continuation Applicants
ALL APPLICANTS
Continuation
i
Applicants
(Column 1)
(Column 2)
(Column 3)
Current Grant Award
3
`3
Requested Budget
Increase or
Decrease
PERSONNEL
`,'.
PERSONNEL
v
(+ / -)
Job Position
Job Position/NAME
VW Director (Holden)
22,253
;
VW Director (Holden)
20,713
r
- 1,540
V\Comp Coordinator (Patch)
500
=
V\Comp Coordinator (Patch)
-0-
t
- 500
VW Assistant (Lopez)
13,090
,a;
fo2
VW Assistant (Lopez)
13,475
+ 385
Cty D FT V W Assist (Knicely)
13,475
_ r
Cty DV FT VW Assistant — (Hammer)
15,015
sH=
+ 1,540
VW DVFT/Cty Intern (Joseph)
11,208
II
VW DVFT/Cty Intern (Murley)
12,792
'F!
+ 1,584
VW Clerical (Medina)
14,384
=
VW Clerical (Sutliff)
15,587
+ 1,203
VW Assistant (Joseph)
19,102
+19,102
Fringe Benefits
16,390
F
Fringe Benefits
24,100
+ 7,710
Subtotal
91,300
� 5
Subtotal
120,784
+29,484
SUPPLIES AND OPERATING
EXPENSES
SUPPLIES & OPERATING EXPENSES
(copying,
I
S:
(+ / -)
rent, phone, tuition, registration fees & other
$5,000)
items under
I
Subtotal
Subtotal
IN -STATE TRAVEL
≥?- '
1t
IN -STATE TRAVEL (itemize transportation/per
etc)
diem,
ff
(+ / -)
Subtotal
Subtotal
EQUIPMENT
v"n
EQUIPMENT
"=sk
(+ / -)
Subtotal
rg�
Subtotal
€t
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
(hi
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
(+/-)
Subtotal
Subtotal
?Et
TOTAL FUNDS: 91,300
TOTAL FUNDS REQUESTED: 120,784
18
VALE PROJECT
BUDGET DETAIL AND JUSTIFICATION
A. PERSONNEL:
List each job position, include
must be included as an attachment.
If two individuals have the same
Indicate FTE of individual (EX:
TOTAL COST - Show the total
(SALARY and FRINGE BENEFITS
the name of the employee, if available.
See SECTION I. - ATTACHMENTS.
job title, list it twice.
A job description for each position
of the position
1 FTE; .5 FTE; .75 FTE)
amount of 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
%
Requested
Funding
Requested
the entire position, what other SOURCE
will be used to pay for the rest of the
position
VW Director (Holden)
1
98,000
27%
26,900
Admin Funds, County
VW Assistant (Lopez)
1
56,118
31%
17,500
Admin Funds, VOCA, County
VW Assistant (Hammer)
1
53,487
36%
19,500
VAWA, Admin funds, County
VW DVFT/Cty Intern
(hurley)
.5
13,560
100%
13,560
Some Admin Funds could be used,
but will loose the position if not
funded by VALE
VW Clerical (Sutliff)
.625
16,522
100%
16,522
Some Admin Funds could be used,
but will loose the position if not
funded by VALE
VW Assistant (Joseph)
1
53,605
50%
26,802
County
Narrative Justification: Exp ain and justify the project's budget and relate the item(s) budgeted to
project activities.
Position: VW Director (Holden)
VALE Cost: $26,900 (S: $20,713 B:$ 6187)
Duties to be performed\project activities: Provides supervision of the Victim Witness Assistance
Unit, Administrative duties, and direct victim support.
Position: VW Assistant- District Court (Lopez)
VALE Cost: $17,500 (S: $13,475 B: $4025)
Duties to be performed\project activities: Provides direct victim support to victims of: juvenile
crimes, gang motivated crimes, felony crimes against children, Spanish-speaking only victims, victim
and witness call offs, as well as back up for County Court and District Court VW Assistants.
19
Position: VW Assistant — County Court (Hammer)
VALE Cost: $ 19,500 (S: $15,015; B: $4485)
Duties to be performed\project activities: Handles the daily duties of the DV Fast Track Program
which includes direct victim contact, support in court, follow-up information with victims, and trial
support. Provides direct victim support of all other County Court cases (Careless Resulting in Death,
other VRA cases, traffic and non-VRA cases) Court Assistance Program, and victim and witness call
offs.
Position: VW DVFT/County Intern (Morley)
VALE Cost: $13,560 (S:12,792, B: $768)
Duties to be performed\project activities: Assists County Court VW Assistant with the daily
duties of the DV Fast Track and County Court workload.
20 hours a week at $12.30 per hour, benefits SS only at .06%
Position: VW Clerical (Sutliff)
VALE Cost: $ 16,522 (S:$15,587 B: $935)
Duties to be performed\project activities: Receptionist duties (first line response to victim phone
calls and victims coming to the office) as well as processing of Victim Rights' Notification returned
mail. 25 hours a week at $11.99 per hour, benefits SS only at .06%
Position: VW Assistant- District Court (Joseph)
VALE Cost: $26,802 (S: $19,102 B: $7700)
Duties to be performed\project activities: Provides direct victim support to victims to a felony
criminal division, and victim and witness call offs.
B. SUPPLIES AND OPERATING REQUEST: All supplies and operating requests must be specific,
itemized costs related to victim services.
N/A
20
C. IN -STATE TRAVEL REQUEST: Itemize travel expenses of project personnel by purpose
(e.g., to attend training sessions, to transport clients, etc.).
Itemize these categories: mileage, lodging, meals, registration fees. ONLY IN -STATE
TRAVEL IS ELIGIBLE.
N/A
D. EQUIPMENT REQUEST Direct benefits to crime victims or witnesses must be shown for the
purchase of equipment to facilitate smoother operation of law enforcement activities.
N/A
E. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES REQUEST: List consultants or independent contractors who
will provide victim services under the grant.
N/A
F. DIFFERENCES FROM LAST YEAR'S REQUEST (Continuation Applicants only): If this
is an application for continuing funding, explain any changes in proposed funding.
The District Attorney's Office has more mandated VRA duties than any other criminal justice agency. In
order to continue to provide the victims services at the present level, we are asking for a $29,484 increase.
$26,802 of the request is increase the 2009 .5 FTE County funded VW Assistant to a full time assistant to
meet the needs as described in this grant. The additional increase of $2,682 is for the two hourly positions
DV Fast Track Intern and VW Unit Receptionist is due to an increase in pay and because in past years,
they have been partially funded by VALE or Compensation Administration Funds.
The District Attorney's Office has not asked for increased funding for the last two funding cycles 2007-
2008 and 2008-2009.
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, Greeley, CO 806
SIGNATURE:
DATE: Cc"J3 M7
COPIES OF THE ST ES DESCRIBED HAVE BEEN PROVIDED TO PROSPECTIVE GRANT
RECIPIENTS WITH T IR APPLICATION.
22
VALE Grant Application Signature Page
Applicant Agency: District Attorney's Office, 19th Judicial District
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
Project Title: Victim Witness Assistance Program
Grant Period: July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2010
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.)
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: 970 356-40
Signature:
Financial Officer:
Name: Barbara Conn
1: jholden@co.weld.co.us
Date:
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 Fad: 970 352-0242 E -Mail: bconnolly@co.weld.co.us
Signature: a4 �J 1t 1I f L Date: 02/25/2009
Authorized Official:
Name: William F. Garcia Position/Title: Board Chair
Agency (including Division or Unit): Board of County Commissioners, Weld County
Mailing Address: PO Box 758, Greeley, CO 80632
Phone: 970 336- nx 0 352-0242 E -Mail: wgarcia@co.weld.co.us
Signature-'' tv G Date: 02/25/2009
In accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes 24-72-202.6, information supplied in this application is considered a public record.
23
02069-nc-
Be certain to designate the appropriate persons as signing authorities.
• The Project Director: The person who has direct responsibility for the implementation
of the project. This person should combine knowledge and experience in the project area
with ability to administer the project and supervise personnel. He/She shares
responsibility with the Financial Officer for seeing that all expenditures are within the
approved budget. This person will normally devote a major portion of his/her time to the
project, and is responsible for meeting all reporting requirements. The Project Director
must be a person other than the Authorized Official or the Financial Officer.
• Financial Officer: The person who is responsible for all financial matters related to the
program and who has responsibility for the accounting, management of funds,
verification of expenditures, audit information and financial reports. The person who
actually prepares the financial reports may be under the supervision of the Financial
Officer. The Financial Officer must be a person other than the Authorized Official or
Project Director.
• Authorized Official: The authorized official is the person who is, by virtue of their
position, authorized to enter into legal contracts for the funded agency; for example, if the
funded agency is one of the following, then the corresponding authorized official is as
follows: state agency - department or division director; city - mayor or city manager;
county - chairperson of the county commissioners; sheriff's department - chairperson of
the county commissioners; police department - mayor or city manager; courts - chief
judge; district attorney's office - district attorney; institution of higher education -
president of the institution or chair/dean of the appropriate department; private non-profit
agency - president or chairperson of the board of directors; school district -
superintendent/assistant superintendent. The authorized official must be a person other
than the project director or the financial officer.
NOTE: If someone other than the AUTHORIZED OFFICIAL as described above has been
delegated the authority to enter into contractual agreements such as this grant, you must provide
official documentation of delegation (such as bylaws or resolutions) immediately following the
signature page.
24
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