Layton victim services: 926 victims helped so far this year as housing funds shrink; staff adds legal-assistance capacity

A victim services briefing at the Dec. 18 council meeting reported that the office had served 926 victims through Sept. 30 and is on track to surpass 1,000 by year-end.

"The number of victims we serve so far is 926," the victim services coordinator told the council and described the caseload breakdown: approximately 42% domestic violence, 29% adult assault, 11% stalking/harassment, 10% child abuse, and smaller shares for property and financial crimes. The coordinator said services include court accompaniment, assistance with protective orders, referrals, case updates, and crisis intervention.

Staff said housing funds used to help victims with rent were reduced and have been repurposed toward physical security measures (locks, cameras) to make homes safer. To expand legal support despite funding limits, the coordinator said they have entered the Certified Advocate Partners (CAP) program through Community Justice Advocates of Utah to provide limited legal assistance for protective orders, including drafting and courtroom support.

Council members encouraged advocacy for grant resources after noting VOCA and other funding cuts. One council member asked about year-over-year trends; staff said they had observed an increase this year and are beginning the annual reporting process to provide more precise trend data.

The presentation closed with examples of direct client assistance: three families helped through the year, including a child-abuse case in which a grandmother gained custody and a domestic-violence family who had to flee with little property.