The Utah County Commission meeting held on January 10, 2024, focused on enhancing victim services through the introduction of a volunteer program and the evaluation of current community coordination efforts. The meeting began with a discussion on the potential for training a service dog, named Remy, to assist victims during testimony by providing emotional support and grounding techniques. This initiative aims to improve the experience of child victims in court settings.

The commission highlighted the importance of establishing a volunteer program for victim services, especially in light of recent funding cuts to the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), which have resulted in a 40% reduction in resources and the loss of a full-time position. The need for volunteers is critical as the demand for victim services continues to grow, and the commission is actively researching successful models from other programs to implement in Utah County.

Concerns were raised regarding the ongoing cuts to VOCA funding, which is derived from federal fines imposed on offenders. The commission acknowledged the need for replacement funding to address the gaps created by these reductions. Discussions included the role of the Utah County Attorney's Office in managing high-risk cases and ensuring that victims receive timely support and resources.

The meeting also emphasized partnerships with local organizations, such as the Refuge, which provides shelter and housing assistance for domestic violence victims, and Utah Legal Services, which offers free legal representation at protective order hearings. The commission expressed a commitment to maintaining safety, confidentiality, and sustainability in their services.

Finally, the commission plans to conduct a survey to assess the effectiveness of their current services and identify areas for improvement, ensuring that they continue to meet the needs of victims in the community. The meeting concluded with a focus on ongoing collaboration and the importance of community involvement in supporting victim services.