HomeMy WebLinkAbout20241952.tiffRESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE APPLICATION FOR 2025 VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW
ENFORCEMENT (VALE) GRANT FOR VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE UNIT,
AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR, 19TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE, AND
CONTROLLER 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 the 2025 Victim
Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE) Grant for the Victim Witness Assistance Unit 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, to the Victim Assistance and Law
Enforcement (VALE) Board, commencing January 1, 2025, and ending December 31, 2025, 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 the 2025 Victim Assistance and Law
Enforcement (VALE) Grant for the Victim Witness Assistance Unit 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, to the Victim Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE)
Board, be, and hereby is, approved.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the Chair, Ermelinda Archibeque,
19th Judicial District Attorney's Office, and Chris D'Ovidio, Weld County Controller, be, and
hereby are, authorized to sign said application.
ec ; apt/b<p), AcT(c'/co)
015/23/2'1
2024-1952
DA0028
APPLICATION FOR 2025 VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT (VALE) GRANT
FOR VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE UNIT
PAGE 2
The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted
by the following vote on the 22nd day of July, A.D., 2024.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
WELD CO DO
ATTEST:
Weld County Clerk to the Board
BY:
.1AJOut
Deputy Clerk to the Board
APO FORM
orney
Date of signature: 7a 1
Kev . Ross, Chair
Pro-Tem
Perry L. B
Mike reeman
ott K. James
on Saine
2024-1952
DA0028
PASS -AROUND TITLE
DEPARTMENT -
PERSON REQUESTING:
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
PASS -AROUND REVIEW
2025 VALE Grant Application
DA Office Victim Witness Assistant Unit
Ermeiinda Archibeque
DATE 7/18/2024
Brief description of the problem/issue.
Submitted with this form is the 2025 VALE Grant Application for $160,200 The Distnct Attorney's Office Victim Assistance Unit has histoncally applied
for and received the VALE grants The DA Victim Witness Unit is requesting an increase in 2025 No County match a required This is the third largest
funding source for the Victim Witness Unit
What options exist for the Board?
We are asking for authorization for the 2025 VALE Grant Application to be placed on the County Commissioner's Agenda for approval to apply for the
grant without a Work Session
Consequences
Grants not funded will result in Victims Rights mandated compliance
Impacts:
Will impact the funding of Victim Witness Una in the Drstnct Attorney's Office
Cost (Current Fiscal Year/Ongoing or Subsequent Fiscal Years
2025
Recommendation:
Authonze application for VALE grant funding which supplies salaries and benefits of the Victim Witness Unit Staff
Support Recommendation Schedule
Place on BOCC Agenda_ Work Session Other/Comments
Perry L Buck, Pro-Tem ‘11,(4e/:,‘_ 744
Mike Freeman '7/4e4'✓
Scott K James"/ir/
Kevin D Ross, Chair
Lori Salne
2024-1952
-7/zz D6o02$
Cheryl Hoffman
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
I approve
Thank you
Sent from my iPhone
Perry Buck
Thursday, July 18, 2024 1:47 PM
Mike Freeman
Kevin Ross; Karla Ford; Scott James; Cheryl Hoffman
Re: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
On Jul 18, 2024, at 1:33 PM, Mike Freeman <mfreeman@weld.gov>wrote:
Approve
Sent from my iPhone
On Jul 18, 2024, at 1:25 PM, Kevin Ross <kross@weld.gov>wrote:
Approve
Kevin Ross
From: Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2024 12:59:13 PM
To: Mike Freeman <mfreeman@weld.gov>; Perry Buck <pbuck@weld.gov>; Scott James
<sjames@weld.gov>; Kevin Ross <kross@weld.gov>
Cc: Cheryl Hoffman <choffman@weld.gov>
Subject: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Please advise if you support recommendation and to have department place on the
agenda.
Karla Ford
Office Manager, Board of Weld County Commissioners
1150 0 Street, P.O. Box 758, Greeley, Colorado 80632
:: 970.336-7204 :: kford2weld.gov :: www.weldgay.com ::
**Please note my working hours are Monday -Thursday 7:00a.m.-4:00p.m.**
<image002.jpg>
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for
the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise
protected from disclosure. if you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-
mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning the
contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited,
Cheryl Hoffman
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Mike Freeman
Thursday, July 18, 2024 1:33 PM
Kevin Ross
Karla Ford; Perry Buck; Scott James; Cheryl Hoffman
Re: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Approve
Sent from my iPhone
On Jul 18, 2024, at 1:25 PM, Kevin Ross <kross@weld.gov>wrote:
Approve
Kevin Ross
From: Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2024 12:59:13 PM
To: Mike Freeman <mfreeman@weld.gov>; Perry Buck <pbuck@weld.gov>; Scott James
<sjames@weld.gov>; Kevin Ross <kross@weld.gov>
Cc: Cheryl Hoffman <choffman@weld.gov>
Subject: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Please advise if you support recommendation and to have department place on the agenda.
Karla Ford
Office Manager, Board of Weld County Commissioners
1150 O Street, P.O. Box 758, Greeley, Colorado 80632
:: 970.336-7204 :: kford(weld.gov :: www.weldgov.com
*Please note my working hours are Monday -Thursday 7:00a.m.-4:04p.m.**
<image002.jpg>
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to
which it is addressed and may contoin information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received
this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying,
distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named
recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: Ermelinda Archibeque <earchibeque@weld.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2024 11:43 AM
To: Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>
Cc: Cheryl Pattelli <cpatteili@weld.gov>; Jill Scott <jscott@weld.gov>; Michael Rourke
<mrourke@weld.gov>; Robb Miller <rmiller@weld.gov>; Karol Patch <kpatch@weld.gov>
Subject: Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Good morning,
Cheryl Hoffman
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Agree
** Sent from my iPhone **
Scott James
Thursday, July 18, 2024 1:38 PM
Karla Ford
Mike Freeman; Perry Buck; Kevin Ross; Cheryl Hoffman
Re: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Scott K. James
Weld County Commissioner, District 2
1150 0 Street, P.O. Box 758, Greeley, Colorado 80632
970.336.7204 (Office)
970.381.7496 (Cell)
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for
the person or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise
protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return
e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any action concerning
the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
On Jul 18, 2024, at 12:59 PM, Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>wrote:
Please advise if you support recommendation and to have department place on the agenda.
Karla Ford
Office Manager, Board of Weld County Commissioners
1150 0 Street, P.O. Box 758, Greeley, Colorado 80632
:: 970.336-7204 :: kford(c weld.gov :: www.weldgov.com
**Please note my working hours are Monday -Thursday 7:00a.m.-4:00p.m.**
<image002.jpg>
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to
which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received
this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying,
distribution or the taking of any action concerning the contents of this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named
recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: Ermelinda Archibeque <earchibeque@weld.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2024 11:43 AM
1
Cheryl Hoffman
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Approve
Kevin Ross
Kevin Ross
Thursday, July 18, 2024 1:26 PM
Karla Ford; Mike Freeman; Perry Buck; Scott James
Cheryl Hoffman
Re: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
From: Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2024 12:59:13 PM
To: Mike Freeman <mfreeman@weld.gov>; Perry Buck <pbuck@weld.gov>; Scott James <sjames@weld.gov>; Kevin
Ross <kross@weld.gov>
Cc: Cheryl Hoffman <choffman@weld.gov>
Subject: PLEASE REPLY - Urgent Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Please advise if you support recommendation and to have department place on the agenda.
Karla Ford
Office Manager, Board of Weld County Commissioners
1150 0 Street, P.O. Box 758, Greeley, Colorado 80632
:: 970.336-7204 :: kfordweld.gov :: www.weldgov.com
**Please note my working hours are Monday -Thursday 7:00a.m.-4:00p.m.**
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings are intended only for the person or entity to which it is addressed
and may contain information that is privileged, confidential or otherwise protected from disclosure. If you have received this communication in error, please
immediately notify sender by return e-mail and destroy the communication. Any disclosure, copying, distribution or the taking of any oction concerning the contents of
this communication or any attachments by anyone other than the named recipient is strictly prohibited.
From: Ermelinda Archibeque <earchibeque@weld.gov>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2024 11:43 AM
To: Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>
Cc: Cheryl Pattelli <cpattelli@weld.gov>; Jill Scott <jscott@weld.gov>; Michael Rourke <mrourke@weld.gov>; Robb
Miller <rmiller@weld.gov>; Karol Patch <kpatch@weld.gov>
Subject: Pass -around 2025 VALE Grant Application
Good morning,
Please find attached the pass -around request and 2025 VALE Grant Application.
We would be looking for this to be placed on the agenda on 7/22/2024 if possible.
Thank you.
1
VICTIM'S ASSISTANCE &
LAW ENFORCEMENT BOARD
Nineteenth Judicial District
2025 VALE FUND APPLICATION PART I
January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025
IMPORTANT: Refer to the APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS TO COMPLETE CORRECTLY.
PART I (SIGNED) AND PART II MUST BE SUBMITTED.
SECTION A - APPLICATION SUMMARY
1. APPLICANT AGENCY: District Attorney's Office 19th JD
Program Name: Victim Witness Assistant Unit
Street Address (if not confidential):
915 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80632
Mailing Address (if different): P.O Box 1167, Greeley, CO 80632
Phone: 970-356-4010
Website: Https://www.weldda.com
VALE USE ONLY
Grant U:
Amount Requested:
Amount Funded:
2. PROJECT DIRECTOR: Ermelinda Archibeque
Title: Director of Victim Witness
Phone: 970-400-4747
E-mail: earchibeque@weld.gov
3. AGENCY STATUS : Governmental ✓
Private Non -Profit ■ Private For -Profit
4. PROJECT TITLE: Victim Assistance through the Criminal Justice Process
■
5. Give a brief problem statement that is specific to the community the project will serve.
Colorado's Victim's Rights Amendment mandates more VRA duties to District Attorney Offices than
any other agency providing services to Crime Victims. The Weld County Victim Witness Assistant Unit
fulfills these VRA mandated duties for crime victims as well as completing statutory duties performed
by the Crime Victims Compensation Program. The VALE Grant provides partial funding for staff of the
Victim Witness Unit, who provide victim services to VRA victims as the criminal case moves through
the Criminal Justice System.
6. FUNDS REQUESTED TOTAL: $ 160,200.00
Question 6 MUST stay on Page 1 -Do not allow question to move to page 2.
1
SECTION B - NARRATIVE SUMMARY (Sections will expand as needed)
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 by holding offenders accountable,
protecting the rights of victims, and honorably representing the community with integrity
to make Weld County a safe place to live." The Victim Witness Assistance Unit is the only
District Attorney's Office based victim assistance unit in Weld County providing services to
✓ ictims of crime as they move through the prosecution of a criminal case. Experiencing a
crime can, for many victims, be the most difficult time in their lives. The criminal justice
system is often challenging and stressful to navigate, but the Victim Witness Assistance
Unit makes every effort to assist victims as they move towards recovery from the physical,
e motional, and financial impacts of crime. The Victim Witness Unit is dedicated to
u pholding victim's rights as outlined in the Colorado Victim Rights Amendment (VRA) and
provides necessary assistance to victims of crime through advocacy, courtroom support,
criminal justice education, and resource referral services. Victim Witness Assistance Unit
staff work with victims of felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic cases by providing them
assistance through the Judicial Process.
8. Project Description for which the funds are being requested from Weld County VALE.
The District Attorney Victim Witness Assistant Unit duties will encompass case management of
trials and daily dockets assuring victims' rights are being complied with by the prosecutor, judge
and at times a defense attorney. Victim Witness Assistants ensure that the victim is aware of
date, time and location of court hearings, providing detailed information of what will occur at
court and enabling the victim to determine which court hearings they want to attend either
because of what the hearing will entail or because it is a court hearing with the victim has the
right to speak giving their input to the judge (be heard). Victim Witness Assistants will provide
victims with criminal justice education, support, and referrals to resources, all with the goal to
help the victim to once again to become "whole." The Victim Assistant will be with them every
step of the process always supportive whatever the outcome and respecting the victims needs
through the process. Victims are also connected with the Crime Victim Compensation Assistant
to assure they are provided resources available to them that provides assurance of safety needs
they may require.
Along with these duties the Victim Assistant also coordinate trial preparation and other testimony
hearings. They assist victims by making travel, hotel, and meal accommodations for the victims
scheduled for testimony. They schedule victim to testify which can become challenging when
testimony is running slower or faster than expected. They arrange a private and safe location for the
2
victim to review their video interview prior to testimony, always close by to provide support to the
victim on the case if they wish to participate in the hearing.
The requested VALE funds will provide partial funding for six positions in the Victim Witness
Unit of the District Attorney's Office:
Positions 1, 2, 5 and 6 - VW Assistants (two County Court and two District Court). The focus
of VALE funding will reflect services provided to primary domestic violence victims and
victim family representatives of deceased victims (crimes of murder, manslaughter,
criminally negligent homicide, vehicular homicide).
Position 3 - The Clerical Victim Witness position is the first person many victims speak to
when phoning the District Attorney's Office. Due to the court schedules of the Victim
Witness Assistants, the Victim Witness Clerical many times provides the victim with
assistance until the assigned Victim Witness Assistant can make contact. Her patient,
caring and calming manner is an essential piece to make a positive experience with the
District Attorney's Office. Through a letter notification process, she is responsible to notify
all VRA victims of the sentence the judge has imposed on the defendant and post
sentencing notification information. She also responds to requests from Post Sentencing
Agencies (Department of Corrections, Community Corrections, Probation) asking for
victim contact information. Additionally, she is back up to the full time Notification Clerk
to make sure VRA letters are always sent out timely.
Position 4 -The Crime Victim Compensation Assistant helps victims who apply for Crime
Victim Compensation by assisting them with applications, providing an understanding of
the program and eligibility requirements and obtaining documentation for requests. In
urgent situations immediately following the crime, this position helps with essential needs
such as safety relocation, crime scene clean-up and funeral/burial costs.
9. Is this agency located entirely within the 19th Judicial District? Yes No
What percentage of agency services are provided for victims/witnesses in the 19th
Judicial District (Weld County)? 100%
10. Please select ONE option below:
A-Agency/Unit has a direct primary focus/mission to serve victims, a statutory obligation to
provide VRA services, and a majority of clients are VRA crimes (all three criteria MUST be met
for A).
3
11. How will the agency know if the project is successfully addressing the problem statement
identified in question 5? Please include information on surveys and/or project evaluation.
Surveys are provided to victims at the conclusion of the court process, asking services
to be rated from "Very Satisfied" to "Very Unsatisfied", and overall experience from
"Very Good" to "Very Poor" and include any other information in the "Additional
Comments" section. The Project Director reviews and analyzes returned victim surveys
to ensure goals and objectives are being met, and to use feedback in effecting
programmatic change as needed. Responses are shared with the Victim Witness Unit
on a quarterly basis. Evaluations received in 2023 had a 94% approval rate.
12. How has your project positively impacted victims? Please provide data to support
assessment.
During the 2023 grant cycle 70% of the new domestic violence victims were contacted prior to first
hearing in which a plea could enter and they were able to participate if they chose to do so. By
connecting with victims during the process, the Victim Assistance provided them with
resources available to them that can give them guidance moving forward after a traumatic
event.
Victim Witness Assistants helped in 17 cases involving deaths. Of this type of cases we have
had a number of high profile cases that have impacted victim's understanding of the Judicial
process and allowing them to participate and letting their voices being heard. By participating
in the process, it provided a sense of closure to some victims but understanding their loved
one can never return.
The connections the Victim Witness Unit makes with these victims also provides them the
connection they need to get assistance through the Crime Victim Compensation Program, the
number of services provided to victims was 705 and these services can provide therapy,
relocation, loss of support which could mean someone not losing their housing, etc. The
Crime Victim Compensation resource is very helpful to victims and having the Victim
Assistance connect them with this resource assisted victims to progress after being
victimized.
The Victim Witness Assistance helped with 22 felony trials. Some victims from out of state
had to endure lengthy stays due to these trials, which caused them anxiety and stress from
being away from home and having to testify about a traumatic event. The Victim assistance
supported and helped them during this process. They assisted with travel accommodations
and guidance during the trials. Of these trials the Victim Witness Unit had 10 trials that
extended over 2 weeks. A very enduring process for victims and the need for a Victim
Assistant was very helpful during these trying times.
4
SECTION C - SERVICE INFORMATION (Sections will expand as needed)
13. Define the population served, including how agency addresses cultural and underserved
population needs in the community.
Underserved Populations refers to populations that face barriers and challenges in accessing
and using resources, due to geographic location, religion, sexual orientation, gendered-
identity, racial, and ethnic populations.
Weld County is the third largest county in Colorado, covering 3,996 square miles with much of that
area represented by rural sprawl. The estimated population (July 2023) 359,442 which continues to
increase. The Diversity of Weld County continues to grow along with the population. Weld County
has a varied population of refugee and immigrant non-English speakers from Burma, Southeast Asia,
China, Vietnam, Korea, Thailand, Africa, Rwanda, Ethiopian, Kenya, Somalia, Egypt, and Europe.
According to Weld County Census, Weld's population is 91.3% White; 31.3% Hispanic or Latino; 62.4%
White alone, not Hispanic or Latino; 1.9% Black or African American; 1.75 American Indian; 2.2%
Asian; and 2.6% Two or more races. An area of emphasis for the Victim Witness Assistance Unit has
been serving those with language barriers. In order to make sure that non-English speakers know their
rights and are able to participate in the criminal justice process to the fullest, we have nine Spanish bi-
lingual Victim Witness Unit Staff, access to a language line service, knowledge of local translators for
language and ASL, contact letters in primary East African languages to reach a great number of our
refugee population, and VRA letters in English and Spanish. We serve victims speaking fifteen different
languages: Karen, Burmese, Chuukese, Vietnamese, Mandarin, Somali, Kinyarwanda, Swahili, French,
Nepalis, Farsi, Rohingya, Indonesian, Tigrigna, and Spanish.
14. How many victims have you served previously for this project? Fill in chart below.
Continuation Grants: Numbers should be the same as your FINAL 4th Quarter grant reports for
each grant year below.
Victims
VALE
Served
Grant
2022
1
Year
Victims
VALE
Served
Grant
1
2023
Year
Victims
Projected
Served
2024
1
Year
Victims
Projected
Served
2025
1
Year
3278
2962
3262
3200
15. If grant funding was received last year, did you meet your goals within 25% of projection?
Yes (!) No
If not, how will the project goals be modified for this grant request?
The number of victims can change from year to year and adjustments have been made to this year's
projection in order to reflect more accuracy.
16. Are there other community/government agencies currently providing like services to the
targeted population? r-, Yes No
a) If yes, explain how this project is not a duplicate of services? Click or tap here to enter
text. Text box will expa na .
5
17. Please list the top five agencies your agency works with in coordination of services and
indicate how you work with them:
Agency
Coordination of
Services
1.
Department
Services
Greeley
Police
Victim
Victim
Attorney's
promote
cases
Advocates
being
Office
a smooth
filed
by
from
Victim
transition
the
this
District
Assistants
law
from
enforcement
Attorney's
law
discuss
enforcement
and
Office.
agency
coordinate
and
investigation
District
victims
to
to
2.
Office
Weld
Victim
County
Sheriff's
Services
Victim
Attorney's
promote
cases
Advocates
being
Office
a smooth
filed
by
from
Victim
transition
the
this
law
Assistants
District
from
enforcement
Attorney's
law
discuss
enforcement
and
Office.
agency
coordinate
and
investigation
District
victims
to
to
3. Catholic
Charities
District
Assistance
other
Catholic
Compensation
Attorney
resources.
Charites
to
discuss
vs
Victim
The
to
determine
Catholic
and
Crime
Assistants
refer
Charities.
Victim
victims
what
contact
Compensation
can
for
Catholic
monetary
be covered
Program
Charites
needs
by Crime
that
works
Victim
Victim
have
with
no
4.
Services
Probation
Victim
District
Probation
Probation
victim
Victim
Sentence.
information.
Victim
Assistant
The
Assistants
in
Probation
cases
refer
in
VA
which
victims
contacts
defendants
and
VW
coordinate
Unit
have
with
received
for current
a
Attorney
contact
5. Sexual
Assistance
Assault
(SAVA)
Victim
District
therapy
and
trust
in
in
sexual
making
Victim
assault
referrals
Assistants
cases.
to
refer
We
each
have
other's
victims
built
agencies.
a
to
SAVA
positive
for
relationship
support
and
Attorney
18. Is your agency actively participating in Weld County's Coordinating Committee for Victims
of Crime (CCVC)?
Yes No
If yes, provide the name(s) and position(s) of the CCVC participant(s) and their level of
involvement in that group.
Name
How
do
they
participate?
Karol
Patch
Chairs
attends
Victim
CCVC,
quarterly
Rights
coordinates
Event
trainings
Subcommittee.
quarterly
and
is
meetings,
usually
sets
a member
up
of
CCVC
the
speakers,
Crime
Erma Archibeque
Attends
the
Crime
quarterly
Victim
trainings,
Rights
Subcommittee.
sets
up
some CCVC speakers,
member
of
19. 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 26
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
6
Domestic Violence Coalition (Co -Chair) and CCVC - Coordinating Committee for Victims of Crime (Co -
Chair). Additionally, the Project Director is also a part of Weld County SART (Sexual Assault Review
Team), MCR SANE (Medical Center of the Rockies Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) and Weld County
Child Case Review. All these programs have a crime victim component to their agenda. The contacts
made at these meetings are invaluable in networking, gaining new contact resource people, and
brainstorming system changes.
20. Will this project utilize volunteers and/or interns? (;) Yes C) No
2
Number of volunteers/interns which were utilized for 2023 for project?
429
Number of volunteer/intern hours provided in 2023?
SECTION D - VICTIM COMPENSATION
Provide the following information concerning your agency's involvement with the Crime
Victim Compensation Program:
21. Does your agency regularly inform victims about Victim Compensation and help them to
apply when appropriate? €€ Yes O No
How? The Victim Witness Assistance Program provides information to victims concerning
Crime Victim Compensation in the initial filing letter sent to the VRA Victim. Additionally, CVC
brochures (English and Spanish) are available in every court waiting room and the District
Attorney's Office Lobby. Victim Witness Assistants help victims complete CVC applications and
refer victims to the CVC Program
a) Explain any major issues that hinder your agency in helping victims to understand
Crime Victim Compensation eligibility requirements and to apply for benefits.
none
b) Date of the last 19th JD Crime Victim Compensation training: 9/26/2023
c) Person who conducted the training: Karol Patch
16 Number of Staff and Volunteers in your agency providing services to crime victims.
14
Number of Staff and Volunteers who attended CVC training in the last two years.
DO NOT INCLUDE VICTIM COMPENSATION BROCHURES WITH YOUR APPLICATION.
SECTION E - VICTIM RIGHTS CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT
22. 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
C) Yes No
a) Briefly describe how your agency assures that all staff and volunteers are trained
on VRA.
The District Attorney's Office has statutorily mandated duties. VW Unit Staff work duties
encompass many VRA responsibilities so by training staff how to do their daily job they are
constantly fulfilling VRA requirements. VRA Enabling legislation was amended May 6,
2022. The Project Director has trained VW Staff, attorneys, and other DA staff on these
changes. The District Attorney's Office employees are informed of legislative changes and
are trained on Victims Right Amendment throughout the year.
b) Does your agency have a statutory mandate to notify victims about their rights
under VRA?
(t Yes No
c) Date of last VRA training: 5/22/2022
d) Person who conducted training:loAnn Holden
18
Number of Staff and Volunteers in your agency providing services to crime victims.
16
Number of Staff and Volunteers who attended VRA training in the last two years.
e) How does your agency notify victims of their rights under VRA? The Victim Witness
Assistance Unit receives new cases with VRA crimes through a database tasking system.
Victims are identified, inputted into a database and an initial VRA Packet is mailed. The
initial VRA Packet includes information regarding the charges filed, a VRA Brochure, a
brochure explaining the availability of Crime Victim Compensation, a request to complete
a Victim Impact Statement and a list of various victim -service providers. As the case
progresses through the court system, DA Office secretarial staff sends case -status emails
to staff in the Victim Witness Assistance Unit who select the appropriate Victim Rights
Letter to send to the identified VRA Victim. Victim Witness Assistants answer victim's
questions by phone or in person and provide court support when victims wish to attend a
critical stage of the court system
1) Does your agency have its own brochure describing VRA? " Yes O No
g y
If yes, list the languages in which your brochure is available. See ATTACHMENTS
PAGE. English and Spanish
8
g)
If your agency does not have a brochure describing VRA, please indicate if your
agency utilizes brochures from other agencies. See ATTACHMENTS PAGE. VRA
brochures SHOULD be included in the VALE application (all languages). Click or
tap here to enter text.
DO NOT INCLUDE VICTIM COMPENSATION BROCHURES WITH YOUR APPLICATION.
SECTION F - BUDGETARY INFORMATION:
All budget pages MUST be completed. A separate portion of the budget is in Excel that
MUST be submitted (VALE APPLICATION PART II). Figures should be rounded to the nearest
dollar
23. Have you previously received 19th JD VALE Funding for this project?
E' Yes (Thi No
GRANT
YEAR
AMOUNT
AWARDED
AMOUNT
OF
FUNDS
RETURNED
2024
2023
156,200
142,000
0
2022
136,182
0
2021
136,182
0
24. What is the project cost per client served (cost/benefit ratio)?
FORMULA: Funds requested divided by number of victims PROJECT will serve = cost per
client. $ 48.81
25. Responsible Parties:
a) List the two individuals who are responsible for ensuring the grant is administered
as proposed by the organization and approved by the VALE Board.
NAME
TITLE
PHONE
EMAIL
Archibeque
Ermelinda
Director
Witness
of
Victim
970-400-4747
earchibeque@weld.gov
Robert
Miller
Assistant
Attorney
District
970-400-4711
rmiller@weld.gov
b)
Who (give name and title) in your agency is responsible for reviewing bank
statements against agency financial reports for accuracy of financial information?
Chris D'Ovidio, is the Weld County Government Controller who supervises all functions
dealing with county finances which would include reviewing bank statements.
26. What controls and processes does your agency have for writing checks? The answer
should include information on: who in the agency is authorized to request a check, who is
9
authorized to write a check, who is authorized to sign a check, whether or not dual
signatures are required on any checks, and whether or not a person authorized to write a
check could sign a check to themselves.
All financial requests in Weld County, including payroll, are processed through a separate accounting
department. The Director of Victim Services submits request (via staff) to the DA Office
Administrator who enters an electronic request in the accounting system. The Weld County
Accounting Department then reviews all requests for proper documentation and approval if required
related to request. A list of payables is submitted to the County Commissioners for their review. If
approved, the Clerk to the Board process the checks through an automatic check signing process and
they are sent out. Due to the separation of duties and multiple review process, dual signatures are
no required.
27. What process does your agency have in place to reconcile financial information with the
quarterly VALE financial report?
Teri McDaniel, Accountant II in the Weld County Accounting Department submits a quarterly
spreadsheet indicating personal costs of each employee in the Victim Witness Assistant Unit. The
figures from the spreadsheet are used to complete the VALE Financial reports. The VALE Financial
Report is then submitted to Chris D'Ovidio, Weld County Government Controller for final review and
signature.
28. Continuation applicants only Difference from last year's budget request.
Explain any changes from last year's awarded funding for victim services and this proposed
funding request.
The 2025 Grant request partial funding for 6 staff in the Victim Witness Unit who received VALE
funding in 2024. The request is an increase of $4,000 to $160,200 due to significant increase of
health insurance and benefits and increase to the pay grade for the Crime Victim Compensation
Assistant position which has increased duties over the years. In addition, this year Division Criminal
Justice informed agencies of cuts on VOCA funding. The District Attorney's Office was reduced 35%
for 2025(a decrease of $101,471). We have also requested additional support from Weld County fo
this decrease.
29. How will future funding needs for this project 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. The VW Unit must compete with other
high priority programs for limited Weld County Funding. The Director of Victim Services writes grants
for funding when available and appropriate, however, grant funding cannot be relied on to always be
available.
30. Are project services eligible for the 19th Judicial District Crime Victim Compensation
Program funds? Yes ✓ No
31. If yes, describe how your agency tracks funds and services to ensure that it is not using
VALE funds to provide services that could be or have been paid for by Crime Victim
Compensation.
Explain agency tracking and accounting process utilized to separate Crime Victim Compensation
services from VALE fund services.
10
32 If the 19th Judicial District VALE Board is only able to partially fund your request, what is
your highest priority for funding?
The VALE Application request is for salaries and benefits of staff who provide direct services to crime
victims, so there is not a highest priority If the VALE Grant funding is reduced significantly, we will
have to reduce staff in the VW Unit
33 Is your agency projected to receive a funding decrease from VOCA (or other funding
source) in the next year?
✓ Yes ❑ No
If so, please explain The District Attorney's Victim Witness VOCA fund was reduced
by 35% for 2025 This will limit funding for other VWU Staff positions and changes to be
made with the VW Unit
11
VALE Grant Application Signature Page
Applicant Agency: District Attorney's Office 19th JD
Project Title: Victim Assistance through the Criminal Justice Process
Grant Period: January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025
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
VALE Grant Application PART I and PART II (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.
The below signature authorities agree that electronic signatures may be used as original
signatures of each party to this application (i.e., Project Director, Financial Officer, and
Authorized Official) and are required. Refer to Application Instructions for definitions for the
signing authorities.
Project Director
Name: Ermelinda Archibeque Position/Title: Director of Victim Witness
Agency (including Division or Unit): District Attorney's Office 19JD Victim Witness Unit
Mailing Address: Centennial Building 915 10th Street Greeley, CO 80631
Phone: 970-400-4747
Signature:
E -Mail: earchibeque@weld.gov
//1
tig(191-b,PA-/
Financial Officer
Name: Chris D'Ovidio Position/Title: County Controller
Agency (including Division or Unit): Weld County Accounting
Mailing Address: 1301 N. 17th Ave
Phone: 970-400-4447
Signature:
E -Mail: cdovidio@weld.gov
12
Authorized Official
Name: Kevin D. Ross Position/Title: Chair, Board of Weld County Commissioners
Agency (including Division or Unit): Weld County Government
Mailing Address: 1150 O Street Greeley, CO 80631
Phone: 970-400-4207
Signature: x
ATTEST: L1.GG[Itt/1J �i• •LD��iC.
B
Deputy l rk to e Boa
E -Mail: kross@weld.gov
024
In accordance with the Colorado Revise • �:j is `'; , ��` 6, information supplied in this application is
considered a public record.
13
SECTION G ATTACHMENTS:
Attach to the original paper grant application and electronic application:
A signed copy of the attached Grant Applicant Memorandum of Understanding Concerning
the Rights Afforded to Crime Victims (last page of Part I application).
One copy of your agency's VRA brochure OR the VRA brochure your agency utilizes (ALL
languages) DO NOT INCLUDE VICTIM COMPENSATION BROCHURES TO YOUR APPLICATION.
Include a copy of agency's most recent audit report or financial review. * If agency is not
subject to audit, explain how proper management and disbursement of funds is monitored.
Organization Chart.
EQUIPMENT REQUESTS documentation of cost of equipment showing comparison
pricing.
Random sampling of client satisfaction (completed client surveys from Weld County).
Please include three surveys dated within the last year.
A list of ALL your agency's board members which delineates the Board of Directors (private
non-profit only).
Current job description for positions requested in budget with legal job title.
NON-PROFIT AGENCIES ONLY
501(c)(3) letter dated within the last five years.
One original (with attachments) and six copies (without above attachments) of Part 1 and
Part II must be submitted in hard copy to the District Attorney's Office. One electronic copy
with all the above attachments must be submitted with electronic application.
2025 VALE Applications must be received at the
District Attorney's Office
by Tuesday, July 30, 2024 by 3:00 pm
Please see RFP for specific instructions
Do not place applications in binders or folders (they will be taken out). Fasten with staple or clip in the
upper left-hand corner.
14
•
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: Ermelinda Archibeque
TITLE: Director of Victim Witness
PROJECT: Victim Assistance through the Criminal Justice Process
AGENCY: District Attorney's Office 19th JD
SIGNATURE
X
CUq (11c�
COPIES OF THE STATUTES DESCRIBED WILL BE PROVIDED TO PROSPECTIVE
GRANT RECIPIENTS UPON REQUEST.
15
VALE PROJECT GENCY ' UDGET
This page should identify your entire Victim Service Agency Budget This information provides an overall
picture of your agency's funding sources Identify "Other"funds (other grants, foundations, government
funds, city funds, donations, fundraising, etc ) "Other" funds should reflect hard dollars, not in -kind
contributions (office space, phones, etc ) All budgeted funding should be listed for a one year time frame
Grant/Fonder
Funding Amount
Start Date
End Date
VALE Grant (if applicable)
T4 $160,200.00
1/1/2025
12/31/2025
DCJ (Ex VOCA, VAWA)
$232,791.00
L
1/1/2025
12/31/2025
Other Victim Services Grants received
from other VALE Judicial Districts
(Specify)
,,
l
Other -Weld County
$1,079,977.25
1/1/2025
12/31/2025
Other -VALE Admin Funds
aS $51,771.80
,'r 1/1/2025
12/31/2025
Other -Crime Victim Compensation
Admin Funds
$55,000.00
1/1/2025
12/31/2025
Other
Other
s
s
`
Other
Other
=
TOTAL
$1,579,740.05
- 1/1/2025
! 12/31/2025
Total estimated Victim Services Budget for 2025
1,579,739 50
Agency Budget
1
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