Supervisors approve matching funds for domestic violence investigator grant

The Appomattox County Board of Supervisors approved pursuing a two‑year matching grant to fund a part‑time investigator who would focus on domestic violence and sexual assault cases and assist the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

Sheriff’s Office representatives and Commonwealth’s Attorney Sherry Richardson and Assistant/Commonwealth’s Attorney Les Fleet asked the board to approve the grant and the required match. Richardson told the board the grant would fund a 32‑hour‑per‑week investigator position focused on domestic violence and sexual assault investigations. “These cases are probably one of the most violent and life‑changing crimes that can occur to an individual,” Richardson said, adding that the Commonwealth’s Office currently handles many complex cases — including juvenile victim cases — and needs additional dedicated investigative capacity.

The grant covers $100,000 over two years with a local match of $33,333 over the same period, the presenters said. Richardson said the application was submitted before the board meeting because the noon deadline coincided with the meeting time; she said the county would withdraw the application if the supervisors chose not to participate.

Reverend Jones moved to approve committing the county to the matching requirement should the grant be awarded; Mr. Carter seconded the motion. The motion passed by voice vote; board members voiced support during the roll call.

Board members asked about hiring for a part‑time role; presenters said retired investigators had expressed interest in part‑time work and that benefits, including FICA, would apply for a 32‑hour employee. The presenters said, if awarded, staffing and start dates would follow the grant award timetable and hiring process.

The board’s vote authorizes the county to provide the stated local match if the grant is awarded; no immediate appropriation was recorded at the meeting.