Advancing Evidence-Based Practices Through Effective Collaboration

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2022

El Paso County, CO Justice Services Department’s Pretrial Services operates a safe, fair, and effective program, which maximizes public safety, court appearance, and the appropriate use of release, supervision, and detention. In collaboration with the 4th Judicial District Courts, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, 4th Judicial District Attorney, Public Defender, and key stakeholders, the Pretrial Services Program strives to provide the following services / benefits: 1) accurate, timely and comprehensive information, including risk assessments, to assist in making informed decisions on pretrial confinement, primarily in the context of requests for personal recognizance (PR) bonds; 2) manage supervision and monitoring services to help ensure court appearance and public safety; 3) reduce the use of County Jail resources for defendants where less restrictive alternatives are appropriate; 4) facilitate the defendant’s ability to maintain employment and provide for their own needs, while also fulfilling support obligations to family, victims, and additional responsibilities while awaiting court proceedings; and 5) provide for the efficient and effective use of resources when operating the Pretrial Services Program to support the work of the court through evidence-based decision-making and risk assessment