March 26, 2024
RE: Next Step Domestic Violence has received a four year Department of Justice Grant to work with Washington County Sheriff’s Office to strengthen our services for victims of domestic violence.
Attention all residents of Washington County, Maine!
Exciting developments are underway in our community to address and combat domestic violence, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Next Step Domestic Violence Project and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. We are pleased to announce that we have received a significant Department of Justice Grant known as the ICJR (Improving Criminal Justice Responses) Program. This grant is specifically designed to enhance our criminal justice response to domestic violence, dating violence, sex trafficking and stalking, ensuring safety and autonomy for victims.
Under the ICJR Program, our community is challenged to work together to identify issues and implement effective strategies for victim safety and offender accountability. This collaborative approach involves partnerships among local government agencies, law enforcement, victim service providers, and other community organizations.
Sheriff Curtis, along with detectives Willey and White from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, will be joining forces with Crystal Cushing, the Criminal Justice Advocate from Next Step Domestic Violence Project. Together, they will meet every Monday morning to review domestic violence calls received through dispatch. Crystal will provide immediate advocacy for victims while law enforcement focuses on the crime scene, ensuring a swift and supportive response.
Additionally, quarterly meetings will be held to review cases in real-time, from dispatch response to judgment. This four-year grant allows for a thorough examination of the criminal justice system’s impact on domestic abuse victims, with the goal of strengthening our community’s response and keeping families safer.
The Executive Director of Next Step emphasizes the importance of this collaboration, stating that it will not only improve their own response but also benefit the District Attorney’s office and local law enforcement. By closely examining and making necessary changes, we can better support victims and ensure justice for all.
Crystal Cushing, the Criminal Justice Advocate, will provide immediate referrals for victims to programming, shelter, legal services, and more. With access to training dollars provided by ICJR, she can bring in national resources to support officers in risk assessments and safety planning.
Together, with the support of Washington County Manager Renee Gray, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Machias PD, and the entire community, we have a true opportunity to make a difference and create a safer environment for everyone.
For more information and resources, visit www.nextstepdvproject.org and www.washingtoncountysheriff.org.