The Boulder County Democratic Party recognized two members of the district attorney’s office for their work in restorative justice.
Boulder County District Attorney Michael Dougherty and Director of the Center for Prevention and Restorative Justice Elaina Shively received the Boulder County Democratic Party’s 2023 Champions of Democracy award.
The award is the highest honor given by the organization and has been awarded to Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold and Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser.
“Dougherty and Shively are being honored for their efforts in restorative justice, particularly with juveniles, which have set a new standard, not just in Colorado, but nationally,” a news release from the organization stated.
“This is a wonderful recognition of the enormous success we have had in changing the justice system to be more restorative. It has been my honor to lead our team to create and implement a robust restorative justice program in the DA’s Office that is respected by our system partners, community members, and the people it serves,” Shively said.
The program now diverts more youth into restorative justice programs than it does prosecute them, according to Shively. The program grew by 355% between the years 2015 and 2019.
“We know that people make mistakes and when we support meaningful accountability and help to get people the services they need, elevate victim voice and choice, and directly encourage harm repair through a restorative justice conference, we can better help the offender get back on the right track, reducing risk of future crime,” Shively said.
Restorative justice doesn’t just help those who commit crimes, it can help the victims as well.
“... we have seen that the use of restorative practices also improves outcomes for crime victims, such as greater rates of harm repair and decreased sense of fear. Seeing crime victims leave our office feeling heard and supported is incredibly meaningful,” she said.
After eight years at the district attorney’s office, Shively will be leaving later this month for a new opportunity.
“It is my hope that the Restorative Justice and Diversion Programs will continue to grow and will continue to advance effective and innovative criminal justice reform. I have no doubt that I am leaving these programs in excellent hands with District Attorney Michael Dougherty’s leadership and the entire incredible diversion and restorative justice team,” Shively said.
