The Office of Domestic Violence and Sex Offender Management (ODVSOM) within the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) plays a crucial role in Colorado's efforts to address and mitigate the impacts of domestic violence and sexual offenses. Alongside its Board and Committee members, ODVSOM is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals and communities by implementing comprehensive Standards and Guidelines, fostering collaboration, approving treatment providers and promoting evidence-based practices.
ODVSOM strives to empower its stakeholders to join the conversation by providing state-of-the-art trainings and ongoing support of agencies and the community impacted by interpersonal violence. A key initiative of ODVSOM is its annual conference. This year, the conference titled "Empowering Collaboration and Integration: Enabling System Enhancement through Professional Connections," was held on July 9-12, 2024.
“It was a monumental success, attracting nearly 500 attendees from Colorado’s four corners and selling out early —a clear testament to its importance and the growing recognition of these critical issues.,” Chris Lobanov-Rostovsky, program manager for the Office of Domestic violence and Sex Offender Management. “Our annual conference has become a cornerstone for professionals across various fields, underscoring the critical importance of ongoing learning and partnership in this work.”
The conference featured topics designed to equip professionals with the latest knowledge and skills. Emerging research provided new insights into domestic violence and sex offender management, while innovation in practice highlighted cutting-edge approaches and techniques. Sessions on evaluation techniques and skills underscored the need for rigorous assessment to improve intervention strategies.
A significant focus was placed on the implementation of differential treatment, emphasizing the necessity of tailored approaches to meet the unique needs of individuals. Abuse prevention efforts were extensively covered, showcasing the latest strategies in preventing domestic violence and sexual assault. The exploration of brain development shed light on how early experiences influence behavior, which is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment programs.
Judicial decision-making and multidisciplinary collaboration were key themes, highlighting the importance of a coordinated approach involving various stakeholders. The integration of technology in managing and preventing domestic violence and sex offenses was also a major topic, showcasing innovative tools and systems.
The conference addressed the unique challenges of providing services to rural communities, discussing strategies to ensure accessibility and tailored support. Diversity, legal issues, and court practices were explored, emphasizing the importance of cultural competence and legal frameworks in addressing these issues.
Restorative practices and advocacy for domestic violence and sexual assault victims were passionately discussed, underscoring the need for victim-centered approaches. Sessions on supervision and management practices, trauma-informed treatment approaches, wellness, and working with families provided a holistic view of addressing domestic violence and sex offenses.
Continuous education and collaboration are essential in adapting to new challenges and integrating innovative solutions to enhance the safety and support of victims.
“As with all difficult challenges we face in the public safety space, it takes an all hands on deck approach to address them,” Matt Lunn, director of the Division of Criminal Justice. “We at DCJ want to be the preferred partner in support of victims and improving outcomes for those who are justice involved.”
The success of the ODVSOM's annual conference is not just in the numbers but in the quality of discussions and the partnerships formed. By fostering professional connections and sharing cutting-edge research and practices, the conference empowers attendees to make meaningful contributions to their communities. The overwhelming response to this year’s event underscores the collective dedication to advancing justice and safety for all.
ODVSOM is at the forefront of addressing these critical issues in Colorado. The annual conference serves as a vital platform for advancing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in creating safer and more supportive communities.
To learn more about ODVSOM and or to collaborate as a stakeholder, visit its webpage.
