Rewards, reflection, and renewed vision defined the Division of Criminal Justice in 2024. The DCJ team achieved significant milestones and spearheaded initiatives to create thriving communities, address systemic challenges, and ensure safety and opportunity for all Coloradans. These accomplishments underscore DCJ's commitment to fostering innovation, inclusion, and equitable community support.
Key Achievements in 2024
DCJ distributed nearly $100 million in grant funding this year, empowering communities across Colorado with the resources needed to build safer neighborhoods.
Notable achievements include:
- Law Enforcement Accountability: Published the first report and dashboard utilizing the new law enforcement contacts and use-of-force reporting system, increasing transparency and accountability.
- Crime Prevention: Implemented and administered seven state-funded Crime Prevention Grant Programs, allocating $54 million to community initiatives aimed at reducing crime and improving public safety.
- Training and Education: Conducted over 80 training sessions on victim rights, human trafficking, victim compensation, and the criminal justice system, reaching approximately 3,000 participants.
- Victim Support: Through the Sexual Assault Victim Emergency (SAVE) Program, 304 victims and survivors received assistance, with over $300,000 allocated for forensic exams, ensuring timely and compassionate care.
- Human Trafficking Prevention: Delivered targeted training for Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), equipping law enforcement with essential knowledge to combat human trafficking.
- Record Attendance at Conferences: The annual conferences hosted by the Office of Community Corrections (OCC) and the Domestic Violence and Sex Offender Management (DVSOM) programs saw their highest attendance to date, reflecting growing interest and engagement.
- Risk Assessment Innovation: Piloted improvements to a first-of-its-kind risk and needs assessment for domestic violence offenders, enhancing tools to predict recidivism risk and measure treatment progress.
- Public Safety Collaboration: Hosted the inaugural State-to-State Convening, uniting public safety and Tribal leaders from the Four Corners region and connecting with the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and state agencies nationwide to support the Office of Liaison of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (OMMIR) mission.
- Grant Administration Modernization: Transitioned to a new software platform to streamline grant management and enhance the experience for grantees.
- Military Integration: Partnered with the Colorado Department of Public Safety Executive Director's Office to integrate SkillBridge interns, supporting military members as they transition out of the military and into new career opportunities.
Advancing Equity and Inclusion
In addition to these programmatic achievements, DCJ worked on a strategic plan to elevate diverse communities, recruit and retain exceptional staff, and foster public safety partnerships. The focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion extended beyond external stakeholders to include internal team development, ensuring a culture of belonging within the organization.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for 2025
DCJ’s efforts in 2024 demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges, innovation driven by necessity, and an unwavering commitment to creating safer communities and brighter futures for all Coloradans. The foundation laid this year sets the stage for continued progress, with opportunities to expand programs, strengthen partnerships, and deepen the impact of DCJ’s work.
Every program launched, grant administered, training conducted, and life impacted in 2024 reflects the dedication and collective effort of DCJ staff. These achievements are not just milestones but the stepping stones for lasting change.