The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Restorative Justice Program that was launched in 2000. The BCSO said there have been more than 1,000 people who have participated in the program, which has a mission “to provide alternative responses to crime and conflict that encourage healing, accountability, competency and citizen involvement.”
The process involves volunteer facilitators with all affected parties in a particular crime. During this conference, a contract is created and the person who committed the crime must complete the terms within a certain time frame, and they will have no other obligations for the crime after the contract is complete. If the contact is not completed, then the individual is referred back to law enforcement for formal charges.
“Restorative justice is about more than responding to crime, it’s about building understanding and restoring trust,” said Sheriff Curtis Johnson. “We are proud to celebrate this anniversary and the countless stories of healing and accountability it represents.”
According to a news release issued by the BCSO, “the program emphasizes collaboration, dialogue, and responsibility over traditional punitive approaches. Its success would not be possible without the dedication of staff, volunteers, community partners, and the courage of participants who engage in the process.”
The Restorative Justice Program receives referrals from law enforcement for adults and youth facing charges for felonies and misdemeanors, including shoplifting, harassment, theft, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, possession, and disorderly conduct.
The BCSO held an event to celebrate the milestone on Monday, which included remarks from former sheriff George Epp, who was the Boulder County Sheriff 25 years ago when the program was launched.
“Reaching this milestone shows the power of community-based solutions and the character of our amazing volunteers,” said Restorative Justice Program Coordinator Devi Suess. “We look forward to continuing this work for the next 25 years and beyond.
