Placer County approves $613k grant for victim witness assistance program

The Placer County Board of Supervisors convened on January 7, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including updates on the probation department and the victim witness assistance program.

The meeting began with Supervisor Jones recognizing the Placer County Probation Department for its successful compliance during an unannounced inspection conducted on November 4, 2024. Chief Probation Officer Marshall Hopper reported that both the Placer Juvenile Detention Facility and the Placer Secure Youth Treatment Facility met all minimum standards as outlined in the welfare and institutions code. Notably, the inspection found no items of non-compliance, prompting Supervisor Jones to commend the department for its excellent work and dedication to community safety.

Following this acknowledgment, the Board moved to the next agenda item concerning the District Attorney's office. District Attorney Geier presented a request for the Board to adopt a resolution ratifying the submission of a grant application to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services. The grant, amounting to $613,745, is intended to support the victim witness assistance program for the period from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Geier emphasized the importance of this program, which provides vital support to victims navigating the criminal justice system, and highlighted the role of victim advocates as essential lifelines for those affected by crime.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of both the probation department's compliance and the funding for the victim witness program, underscoring the Board's commitment to public safety and support for vulnerable community members. Further actions and follow-ups will be discussed in future meetings as the Board continues to address the needs of Placer County residents.