HomeMy WebLinkAbout20231850.tiffLori Saine
RESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE APPLICATION FOR 2024 VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW
ENFORCEMENT (VALE) GRANT FOR VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE UNIT
AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR PRO-TEM 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 2024 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, 2024, and ending December 31, 2024, 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 2024 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 Pro-Tem 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 5th day of July, A.D., 2023.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
WELD COUNTY, COLORADO
ATTEST: W `elu,;4
Weld County Clerk to the Board
BY:
Deputy Clerk to the Boar
APP VED
County At orney
Date of signature: O7/1 I /23
Cc : DA (EA/KITACTepko)
O7/2O/2.3
2023-1850
DA0028
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
PASS -AROUND REVIEW
PASS -AROUND TITLE: 2024 VALE Grant Application
DEPARTMENT: DA Office Victim Witness Assistant Unit
PERSON REQUESTING: Ermelinda Archibeque
DATE: 6-27-2023
Brief description of the problem/issue:
Submitted with this form is the 2024 VALE Grant Application for $156,200. The District Attorney's Office Victim
Assistance Unit has historically applied for and received the VALE grants. The DA Victim Witness Unit is
requesting an increase in 2024. No County match is required. This is the third largest funding source for the
Victim Witness Unit
What options exist for the Board? (include consequences, impacts, costs, etc. of options):
We are asking for authorization for the 2024 VALE Grant Application to be placed on the County
Commissioner's Agenda for approval to apply for the grant without a Work Session.
Recommendation:
Authorize application for VALE grant funding which supplies salaries and benefits of the Victim Witness Unit
Staff.
Approve
Recommendation
Perry L. Buck, Pro-Tem
Mike Freeman, Chair
Scott K. James
Kevin D. Ross
Lori Saine
Schedule
Work Session Other/Comments:
2023-1850
7/5 Diq OOZTS
Karla Ford
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Approve
Mike Freeman
Tuesday, June 27, 2O23 11:11 AM
Karla Ford
Re: Please Reply - Passaround 2O24 Vale Grant Application
Sent from my 'Phone
On Jun 27, 2O23, at 6:46 PM, Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>wrote:
Please advise if you approve recommendation. Thank you!
Karla Ford X
Office Manager, Board of Weld County Commissioners
1150 0 Street, P.O. Box 758, Greeley, Colorado 80632
:: 970.336-7204 :: kfordweldgov.com :: www.weidgov.com
**Please note my working hours are Monday -Thursday 7:00a.m.-5:04p.m.**
<imageOO2. jpg>
Confidentiality Notice: This electronic transmission and any attached documents or other writings ore 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: Tuesday, June 27, 2O23 1O:42 AM
To: Karla Ford <kford@weld.gov>; Houstan Aragon <haragon@weld.gov>; CTB <CTB@co.weld.co.us>;
BOCC Contracts <BOCC-Contracts@co.weld.co.us>; Ryan Rose <rrose@weld.gov>; Cheryl Pattelli
<cpattelli@weld.gov>
Cc: Michael Rourke <mrourke@weld.gov>; Robb Miller <rmiller@weld.gov>; Karol Patch
<kpatch@weld.gov>
Subject: Passaround 2024 Vale Grant Application
Good morning,
Please find attached the Pass Through Request and 2O24 VALE Grant Application.
I believe we are looking at this being placed on the agenda on 7-5-23.
Thank you!
Erma Archibeque
Director of Victim Witness
Weld County District Attorney's Office
VICTIM'S ASSISTANCE &
LAW ENFORCEMENT BOARD
Nineteenth Judicial District
2024 VALE FUND APPLICATION PART I
January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024
IMPORTANT: Refer to the APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS TO COMPLETE CORRECTLY.
PART I (SIGNED) AND PART II MUST BE SUBMITTED.
ON A - APPLICATION SUMMARY
1. APPLICANT AGENCY: District Attorney's Office 19th JD
Program Name: Victim Witness Assistance Unit
Street Address (if not confidential):
915 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80632
VALE USE ONLY
Grant 8:
Amount Requested:
Amount Funded:
Mailing Address (if different): P.O. Box 1167, Greeley, CO 80632
Phone: 970-356-4010
Website: Https://www.weldda.com
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 O Private For -Profit O
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 Rights Amendment mandates more VRA Duties to District Attorney Offices than any
other agency providing services to Crime Victims. The Weld County Victim Witness Assistance 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 services to VRA victims as the criminal case moves through the
Criminal Justice System.
6. FUNDS REQUESTED TOTAL: $ 156,200
0Q6VO -/��
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 (established in 1980) is the only District Attorney's Office based victim
assistance unit in Weld County providing VRA mandated services to victims 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, emotional, and financial impacts of crime. The Victim Witness Unit is
dedicated to upholding 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.
Presently, the Victim Witness Assistance Unit staff consists of sixteen staff (16 FTE) working with
victims of felonies, misdemeanors, and traffic cases. In 2022, the Victim Witness Unit provided 3278
services to 3400 unduplicated victims who fall under Colorado's Victim Rights Amendment. The
Victim Witness Unit provides services to all victims and witnesses involved in the prosecution of
criminal cases which have occurred in Weld County, Colorado. We serve individuals of all races and
ethnicities, languages, and cultures, those who identify as deaf, LGBTQI, disabled (physical or
developmental), as well as those who live in varying geographic locations.
The District Attorney's Office Victim Witness Assistance Program is the only agency
mandated by the Crime Victim Rights Amendment (VRA) Statute to provide these services
crime victims:
1. written notifications to victims of Victim Rights' Amendment crimes of court
hearings(critical stages of the court system) advising them of the date, time and
location;
2. contact information for the assigned VW Assistant and Deputy DA;
3. information regarding a victim's rights at each court hearing and their rights
throughout the criminal justice process, including the right to be heard by the
judge at critical court hearings;
4. a liaison between the victim and Deputy DA as the VW Assistant is more available
to return calls than the Deputy DA who is court more often;
5. on a case by case basis finding the right person or resource for the victim to
contact including Crime Victim Compensation;
6. coordinating travel and hotel for out-of-state victims and witnesses to testify;
7. provide a safe and secure court waiting area for victims when they are not in the
courtroom;
8. provide emotional support before, during and after each court hearing;
9. compile restitution information from victim to be ordered by the court to be paid
by the defendant;
10. advise victim of the defendant's sentence and explain they will continue to be
notified by a Post Sentencing Agency (Department of Corrections, Department of
2
Youth Corrections, Jail, Community Corrections) or how to enroll in notification if
the defendant has been sentenced to Probation;
11. proactive contact with misdemeanor domestic violence victims.
12. process Crime Victim Compensation regular and emergency awards for crime
victims.
8. Project Description for which the funds are being requested from Weld County VALE.
District Attorney Victim Witness Assistants stand as a reminder that there is a helping hand to crime
victims who have become involved the criminal justice system which historically has been only about
defendants' rights. In 1992, Colorado citizens passed the Crime Victim Rights Amendment adding this
legislative declaration to the Colorado Constitution, "The general assembly hereby finds and declares
that the full and voluntary cooperation of victims of and witnesses to crimes is imperative for the
general effectiveness and well-being of the criminal justice system of this state. It is the intent to
assure that all victims of and witnesses to crimes are honored and protected by law enforcement
agencies, prosecutors, and judges in a manner no less vigorous than the protection afforded criminal
deferidants.11 This Colorado Constitutional Amendment balances a criminal defendant's
constitutional rights with a crime victim's constitutional rights. Although everyone who works at the
District Attorney's Office is aware and has a part in assuring crime victims' rights are upheld, the
majority of VRA duties are performed by staff in the Victim Witness Assistance Unit. The Victim Rights
Amendment (VRA) mandates that crime victims have rights throughout the criminal justice system.
Core Victim Rights for every crime victim is "to be to be treated with fairness, respect and dignity"
and be "informed, present and heard during the critical stages of the court system."
Victim Witness Assistants work tirelessly to ensure not only that the victim is aware of the date, time
and location of the court hearings but detailed information of what will occur at each court hearing
enabling the victim to determine which court hearings they want to attend (be present) either
because of what the hearing will entail or because it is a court hearing in which the victim has the
right to speak giving their input to the judge (be heard). Victim Witness Assistants spend hours
explaining the criminal justice system into terms that are understandable and without legal jargon.
Victim Witness Assistants not only explain what a victim's rights are under VRA but also make sure
that those rights are being complied with by the prosecutor, judge and even at times a defense
attorney.
Victim Witness Assistants 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". During discussions
between the victim and prosecuting attorney, the Victim Witness Assistants may act as a mediator,
always listening to a victim's fears, frustrations, criticisms, and complaints. Some victims see the
criminal justice system as an intrusion in their life and want the case dismissed. A Victim Witness
Assistant must take all this in stride as they know that what they are saying and doing today may be
planting a seed with the victim. Someday, when the victim is ready, they will remember the kind,
patient, sympathetic Victim Witness Assistant that listened to their anger and frustrations and gave
them referrals and resources.
Victim Witness Assistants' duties also encompass case management of trials and daily dockets always
making themselves available to a victim who physically or virtually attends the court hearing. In the
process of coordinating victims and witness for trials or other testimony hearings, a Victim Witness
Assistant must make travel and hotel arrangements and obtain meal allowance. They schedule victims
3
and witnesses to testify which can become challenging when testimony is running slower or faster
than expected. They arrange a private location for the victim to review their video interview prior to
testimony, always close by to give a tissue, a hug and kind supportive words. They instruct victims and
witnesses on the court's order of "sequestration of witnesses", explain the process of testifying in
court, and what to do when attorney says "objection your honor". They allow the victim to know it is
ok to not know what to do when the judge answers "overruled or objection sustained" assuring the
victim this can be a confusing and scary process which is why there will be with them every step of
the process. And when the court rules on a motion or a verdict is read, it is the Victim Witness
Assistant who is there to hold a hand, always supportive whatever the outcome.
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 backup 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. The Crime Victim Compensation Program has seen an increase in
both victim applications and funds awarded. This position was first created in 2006 working 20 hours
a week, gradually increasing to 30 hours a week. After being unsuccessful in obtaining VOCA funding
for this position, the Weld County Commissioners, approved funding to absorb the costs not funded
by the VALE Grant to make this a full- time position in 2019.
9. Is this agency located entirely within the 19th Judicial District? ()Yes O 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).
4
11. How will the agency know if the project is successfully addressing the problem identified
in question 5? Please include information on surveys and/or project evaluation.
The Victim Witness Assistance Unit (VW Unit) provide assistance to victims through: Victim Rights
Amendment information and education, Crime Victim Compensation information and application
assistance, referral to community services, updates on the status of the case and support throughout
the court process. We evaluate this assistance by recording and tracking statistics according to grant
specific goals and objectives outlined in this application. The VW Clerical VW staff person utilizes the
DA ACTION Stat Report to pull quarterly reports to capture statistics. The Project Director compiles
quarterly statistics and reports to the VW Unit Staff on the progress of the intended outcomes/impact
of the data collection. This discussion provides insight into any unintended changes or outcomes and
identifies for VW Unit Staff the status of the projected time frame goals.
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 2022
had an 97% approval rate.
12. How has your project positively impacted victims? Please provide data to support
assessment.
During the 2022 grant cycle 72% 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 provided assistance in 26 cases involving deaths of 30 persons, 3 being
children. Of these 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 699 and these services can provide therapy, relocation,
loss of support which could mean someone not losing their housing, etc. Our office was able to
assist 100% for victims that were seeking emergency needs. 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 55 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 an 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 4 trials that extended over 3 to 4 weeks. A
very enduring process for victims and the need for a Victim Assistant was very helpful during these
trying times.
5
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 2022) is 350,176 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 2019 Weld County Census, Weld's population is 91.7% White; 31% Hispanic or Latino;
63.4% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino; 1.9% Black or African American; 1.7% American Indian;
2.1% Asian; and 2.3% Two or More Races. 64.9% White alone, not Hispanic or Latino; 1.6% Black or
African American; 1.7% American Indian; 1.8% Asian; and 2.5% 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 greater 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, Napalise, Farsi, Rohngya, Indonesian, Tigrigna and Spanish.
14. How many victims have you served previously for this project? Fill in chart below.
Continuation Grants: Numbers should correlate to your FINAL 4th Quarter grant reports for
each grant year below.
Victims Served 1 Year
VALE Grant 2021
Victims Served 1 Year
VALE Grant 2022
Victims Served 1 Year
Projected 2023
Victims Served 1 Year
Projected 2024
3228
3230
3262
3262
15. Are there other community/government agencies currently providing like services to the
targeted population? } Yes O No
a) If yes, explain how this project is not a duplicate of services? Click or tap here to enter
text. Text box wit expand.
16. Please list the top five agencies your agency works with in coordination of services and
indicate how you work with them:
Agency I Coordination of Services
6
1. Greeley Police
Department Victim
Services
Victim Advocates from this law enforcement agency and District
Attorney's Office Victim Assistants discuss and coordinate victims to
promote a smooth transition from law enforcement investigation to
cases being filed by the District Attorney's Office.
2. Weld County Sheriff's
Office Victim Services
Victim Advocates from this law enforcement agency and District
Attorney's Office Victim Assistants discuss and coordinate victims to
promote a smooth transition from law enforcement investigation to
cases being filed by the District Attorney's Office.
3. Catholic Charities
District Attorney Victim Assistants contact Catholic Charites Victim
Assistance to discuss and refer victims for monetary needs that have no
other resources. The Crime Victim Compensation Program works with
Catholic Charites to determine what can be covered by Crime Victim
Compensation vs Catholic Charities.
4. Probation Victim
Services
District Attorney Victim Assistants refer victims and coordinate with
Probation Victim Assistant in cases in which defendants have received a
Probation Sentence. The Probation VA contacts VW Unit for current
victim contact information.
S. Sexual Assault Victim
Assistance (SAVA)
District Attorney Victim Assistants refer victims to SAVA for support and
therapy in sexual assault cases. We have built a positive relationship
and trust in making referrals to each other's agencies.
17. Is your agency actively participating in Weld County's Coordinating Committee for Victims
of Crime (CCVC)?
0 Yes 0 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?
Ermelinda
Archibeque
Attends quarterly trainings and is usually a member of the Crime
Victim Victim Rights Event Subcommittee
Karol Patch
Chair CCVC, coordinates quarterly meetings, sets up speakers, attends
quarterly trainings, member of the Crime Victim Rights
Subcommittee.
18. 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 Domestic Violence Coalition (Co -Chair) and CCVC - Coordinating
Committee for Victims of Crime (Patch -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
7
meetings are invaluable in networking, gaining new contact resource people, and
brainstorming system changes.
19. Will this project utilize volunteers and/or interns? 0 Yes O No
2
Number of volunteers/interns which were utilized for 2022 for project?
993
Number of volunteer/intern hours provided in 2022?
SECTION D VICTIM COMPENSATION
Provide the following information concerning your agency's involvement with the Crime
Victim Compensation Program:
20. Does your agency regularly inform victims about Victim Compensation and help them to
apply when appropriate? 0 Yes O No
How? The Crime Victim Compensation information is provided by the notification clerk/victim
assistance, the filing letter information is sent to the victims VRA Victim. Additionally, Crime
Victim Compensation brochures (English and Spanish) are available in every court waiting room
and the District Attorney's Office Lobby. Victim Witness Assistants help victims complete Crime
Victim Compensation applications and refer victims to the Crime Victim Compensation
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: 3/22/2023
c) Person who conducted the training: Karol Patch, Crime Victim Compensation Director
16
Number of Staff and Volunteers in your agency providing services to crime victims.
15 Number of Staff and Volunteers who attended CVC training in the last two years.
DO NOT INCLUDE VICTIM COMPENSATION BROCHURES WITH YOUR APPLICATION.
8
SECTION E VICTIM RIGHTS CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT
21. 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
O Yes C} 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 VRA 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?
()Yes No
c) Date of last VRA training: 5/22/2022
d) Person who conducted training: JoAnn Holden
16
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, entered into a database and an initial VRA Packet is mailed. The
initial VRA Packet includes information regarding the charges filed, a VRA Brochure,
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 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
f) Does your agency have a brochure describing VRA?
9
0Yes No
If yes, list the languages in which your brochure is available. See ATTACHMENTS
PAGE. English, Spanish
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.
22. Have you previously received 19th JD VALE Funding for this project?
()Yes ONo
GRANT YEAR
AMOUNT AWARDED
AMOUNT OF FUNDS RETURNED
2023
Enter award
2022
142,000
0
2021
136,182
0
2020
136,182
0
23. 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. $ request $156,200 / 3262 victims= ratio of $47.88
24. 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
Ermelinda
Archibeque
Director of Victim
Witness
970-400-4747
earchibeque@weld.gov
Robert Miller
Assistant 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.
10
25. 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
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 requests (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
not required.
26. 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 Assistance 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.
27. 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 2024 Grant request partial funding of 6 staff in the Victim Witness Unit who received Vale
funding in 2023. The request is of $156,200 is an increase of $14,200, a 14.70% increase due to health
insurance and benefits.
Division Criminal Justice has alerted agencies that VOCA funding will see a decrease in 2023 available
funding. For the past seven years, 2016 through 2022, we have requested and been awarded the
same VALE grant amount of $136,182. The Unit was approved a slight increase in 2022 for an amount
of 142,000. The administrative funds of VALE and CVC decreased from the overall budget. From 2021
to 2022 VALE ADMIN saw a decrease from 6% to 4 % and CVC ADMIN (Crime Victim Compensation)
saw a decrease from 4% to 3%. Weld County pays for all overhead including IT support, computers,
phones and phone support for the VW Unit. We try to fund salaries with these administrative funds,
but they are decreasing.
28. 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 to always be
available.
The District Attorney's Victim Witness Unit funding for 2024: 62% Weld County, 20% VOCA Grant,
11% VALE Grant, 5% VALE Admin Funds, 2% CVC Admin Funds.
11
29. Are project services eligible for the 19. Judicial District Crime Victim Compensation
Program funds? ❑ Yes ✓ No
30. 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.
31. If the 19. 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. Weld County Government has requested departments
reduce the 2023 budget request by 10%. If the VALE Grant funding is reduced significantly, we will
have to reduce staff in the VW Unit.
32. Did your agency receive a VOCA (or other funding) cut in the last year?
✓Yes ❑ No
If so, please explain: Grant cuts in 2023-2024 for one position that was picked up
by Weld.
12
VALE Grant Application Signature Page
Applicant Agency: District Attorney's Office 19 JD
Project Title: Victim Witness Unit
Grant Period: January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024
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: 915 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80632
Phone: 970-400-4747 E -Mail: earchibeque@weld.gov
6/27/2023
Signature: X Ermelinda Archibeque
Director of Victim Witness
Signed by: Ermelinda Archibeque
Financial Officer
Name: Chris D'ovidio Position/Title: County Controller
Agency (including Division or Unit): Weld County Accounting
Mailing Address: Centennial Building 915 10th Street Greeley, CO 80631
Phone: 970-400-4447 E -Mail: cdovidio@weld.gov
ChrisDigitally signed by Chris
C.� D'Ovidio
Signature: X D'Ovidio °M
2023.6.28
13
Authorized Official
Name: Perry L. Buck Position/Title: Chair Pro—Tem, Board of Weld
County Commissioners
Agency (including Division or Unit): County Commissioners
Mailing Address: 1150 O Street Greeley, CO 80632
Phone: 970-400-4206
Signature:
E -Mail: pbuck@weld.gov
In accordance with the Colorado Revised Statutes 24-72-202.6, information supplied in this application is
considered a public record.
14
SECTION G ATTACHMENTS:
Attach to the original grant application only:
❑ A signed copy of the attached Grant Applicant Memorandum of Understanding Concerning
the Rights Afforded to Crime Victims (last page of Part I application).
E 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.
E EQUIPMENT REQUESTS— documentation of cost of equipment showing comparison
pricing.
E Random sampling of client satisfaction (completed client surveys from Weld County).
Please include three surveys.
❑ A list of ALL your agency's board members which delineates the Board of Directors (private
non-profit only).
E 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.
2024 VALE Applications must be received at the
District Attorney's Office
by Friday, July 7, 2023 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.
VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT BOARD
15
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 Witness Assistant Unit
AGENCY: District Attorney's Office 19th JD
6/27/2O23
SIGNATURE X Ermelinda Archibeque
Signed.by: Ermelinda Archibeque
COPIES OF THE STATUTES DESCRIBED WILL BE PROVIDED TO PROSPECTIVE
GRANT RECIPIENTS UPON REQUEST.
16
VALE PROJECT TRAVEL AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DETAIL AND JUSTIFICATION
List each item requested in the grant. Requests must be specific, itemized costs, related to victim
services. Fill in TAN cells only.
In -State Travel
Item #1
Item Justification:
Include description and
purpose of travel expense
related to project personnel.
Item Cost
VALE Request
Vale %
Requested
Other Sources of Payment
In -State Travel
Item #2
Item Justification:
Include description and
purpose of travel expense
related to project personnel.
Item Cost
VALE Request
Vale %
Requested
Other Sources of Payment
In -State Travel
Item #3
Item Justification:
Include description and
purpose of travel expense
related to project personnel.
Item Cost
VALE Request
Vale %
Requested
Other Sources of Payment
Professional Services --
Consultants or Independent
contractors
Professional #1
Item Justification:
Include description of
professional who will provide
victim services, and license or
education that makes them a
professional in their field.
Annual Cost
VALE Request
Vale %
Requested
Other Sources of Payment
Travel and Professional Services
1
VALE PROJECT TRAVEL AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DETAIL AND JUSTIFICATION
Professional Services --
Consultants or Independent
contractors
Professional #2
Item Justification:
Include description of
professional who will provide
victim services, and license or
education that makes them a
professional in their field.
Annual Cost
VALE Request
Vale %
Requested
Other Sources of Payment
I + +
Travel and Professional Services 2
APPLICATION FOR 2024 VICTIM ASSISTANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT (VALE) GRANT
FOR VICTIM WITNESS ASSISTANCE UNIT
APPROVED AS TO SUBSTANCE:
Elected Official, Department Head, or Deputy Department Head
APPROVED AS TO FUNDING:
Chief Financial Officer, or Controller
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
County Attorney
Hello