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Meeting Date:	08/22/2016
OVAG
Submitted for:	Isidro Alaniz	Submitted By:	David Sanchez
Department:	District Attorney

Subject:

Discussion and possible action to ratify and authorize the acceptance of an Other Victims Assistance Grant (OVAG) from the Office of the Texas Attorney General in the amount of $42,000 for a victims assistance coordinator position; and authorizing the Webb County Judge to execute all relevant documents; and any other matters incident thereto. This grant does not require a match. This is a time sensitive item that required the signature of the authorized official no later than August 19, 2016. [Grant Fund 323]

Issue: Over the last two years, Webb County has seen a rise in domestic violence cases. These cases involve victims of crime that suffer emotional trauma and physical injuries. The State of Texas has set up a Victim of Crime Compensation Fund that provides benefits to victims of these types of crimes; however, the system is complex and normally victims have to document their benefit eligibility while still under emotional trauma and physical distress. The District Attorney's Office submitted an agenda item to apply for two year grant application for a victims assistance coordinator. The agenda item was approved by the governing body on May 11, 2015. This would be the second year for this grant award.

Solution: The District Attorney's Office has been awarded a grant that funds the position of a victims assistance coordinator. The victims assistance coordinator will act as a first point of contact for the victims of crime and will also work closely with prosecutors, investigators and counselors to meet the needs of crime victims.The victims assistance coordinator main objective will be to provide critical support and to facilitate filling out the necessary paperwork so that victims of crime can have access to eligible benefits.

Result: Victims of violent crime will have a point of contact that will provide them with direct victim services.

Background:

Previous Court Action:

Fiscal Impact

Budget Account Number:	323
Funding Source:	1100
Balance:	NA
Financial Impact:
There will be a shortfall of $1,743.00 in funds to cover fringe benefits related to the position. The District Attorney will utilize State Forfeiture Funds to cover the shortfall.

Attachments
OVAG Budget