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Extracted from Consolidated Report

This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.

Lake County Grand Jury • 2006-2007

Health and Social Services Committee Victim-Witness Program

Published: April 17, 2007 5 pages
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Findings 5 findings

F1 Page 74
Mr. Blakey started the Program in 1984 with “A chair and a yellow notepad sharing a small office.” The present office employs 11 professionals serving the needs of over 1400 clients a year. These vulnerable, damaged clients are guided and advised throughout the long, painful legal process and beyond, if necessary, by this dedicated county office. Due to the ability of staff counseling and legal agreements, 90% of cases do not reach the courtroom.
F2 Page 74
http://www.co.lake.ca.us/generalinformation/grandjury/report0304/vw.html (1 of 2)4/17/2007 3:06:56 PM County of Lake - 2003/2004 Grand Jury Report -Grand Jury Selection For 20 years Mr. Blakey has organized and operated the Victim-Witness Program without utilizing any county monies. All expenses are covered by non-matching fund grants initiated by Mr. Blakey. The Victim-Witness Program pays for the counseling of clients as well as costs to crime victim’s families such as funeral costs and emergency living expenses.
F3 Page 75
Victim-Witness clients are most vulnerable and defenseless. They include abused children and adults, victims of violent crimes and the families of violent crime victims. Clients are consulted, provided needed medical and financial assistance as well as “By your side” assistance throughout the legal process with complete confidentiality.
F4 Page 75
Hosted by the Lake County District Attorney’s Office, Mr. Blakey presents an extensive workshop entitled “Beyond Awareness” to appropriate professionals. The seminar lasts three days and covers all aspects of the Victim-Witness Program, with a number of well-qualified professionally recognized speakers.
F5 Page 75
The Victim-Witness Program professionals are concerned for the safety and confidentiality of their clients. As the office is further than a city block on a steep hill from the County Court House, there is concern about the transfer of clients to and from the office and courts. Mr. Blakey has done a survey on housing the office in the courthouse adjacent to the District Attorney’s offices. This would facilitate meetings between the two offices. He has also studied the possibility of closed circuit television testimony of witnesses. This would minimize the trauma of abuse victims and would also eliminate any court disruptions.

Recommendations 1