Innovative Programs for Public Safety

Family Justice Center.

Criminal and civil justice systems may unintentionally make it difficult for victims of family violence to seek help. Victims must often travel to many locations to seek services, and tell their story over and over again to officials and others. A Family Justice Center addresses these issues by co-locating a multidisciplinary team of professional who work together, under one roof, to provide coordinated services that help victims break the cycle of violence and develop healthy relationships.

Veterans Court.

As one of the only counties in the nation housing all five branches of the military, and as home to a rising number of veterans returning from war, I believe we should join the many jurisdictions across the country that have established veterans courts. These courts help steer troubled veterans onto a more positive course by linking them with veteran mentors and with counseling and other benefits they have earned. Given the enormous costs of incarceration, and the proven success of veterans courts in lowering recidivism, it makes sound financial sense to help divert veterans away from prisons and toward the services they need to get back on track.