Watch the meeting here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GdRRTwNOTtA
At its March 20 meeting, the Grand County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council shared early successes from a new pre-trial services program designed to reduce incarceration and support court compliance for individuals awaiting trial.
The probation program, launched with a one-time state grant, provides ankle monitors and one-on-one support through a dedicated officer. One month in, officials report promising results.
“It’s appearing to have worked really well,” said County Attorney Stephen Stocks, noting that most participants are complying with their release conditions (01:46).
The program is part of a broader effort to improve outcomes for individuals in the justice system while reducing strain on local jail resources.
“We’ll probably see cases move faster,” Stocks said, “because anybody that’s on pre-trial services—it’s like they’re on supervision” (08:30). This structured support reduces failures to appear and encourages resolution of cases without extended delays.
But for many on the council, the most important outcome is human.
“Honestly, I think we’re seeing folks get access to treatment, and I think that’s the most important part,” said Stocks. “Having that consistent follow-up—like how drug court has a tracker—I think that’s been really helpful” (09:04).
A pre-trial officer shared a story of a participant experiencing homelessness who, after regular check-ins, entered detox and eventually made his way to a long-term recovery facility in Ogden.
“He probably would still be here in town somewhere, probably dead quite honestly, if he hadn’t had someone checking in on him,” the officer said (19:07). “It’s not going to happen with every case, for sure, but if I can help some of them get into a better position, it benefits the community.”
Council members voiced strong support for continuing the program but acknowledged concerns about funding.
“If we don’t get it funded again, the county has to pick it up,” Grand County Sheriff Jamison Wiggins noted (04:00).
Options include applying for new state or federal grants or integrating the program more deeply with other community services.
Behavioral health providers expressed interest in better coordination, particularly in supporting domestic violence survivors and individuals in substance use treatment. The CJCC aims to use the next quarter to refine the program, explore funding sources, and strengthen interagency partnerships.
The next CJCC meeting is scheduled for June 19.
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