Kara Snarr

This 2021-2025 Montana Statewide Strategic Plan for the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program outlines the state's strategic approach to enhancing public safety, crime prevention, and victim assistance. It prioritizes three main areas: supporting law enforcement programs, particularly Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Forces; strengthening prosecution and court programs, including indigent defense; and expanding prevention and education initiatives. The plan aims to strategically allocate JAG funds and leverage other resources to address criminal justice needs, foster coordination among stakeholders, and improve the effectiveness of the justice system across Montana.

The board approved funding for the Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program, a Gun Violence Prevention Campaign, and the domestic violence intervention program, as well as the fiscal year 2027 after school program funding opportunity and the Youth Justice Advisory Council Governor's report. Additionally, the Board recognized the Blacktail Health- Butte Child Evaluation Center with the Certificate of Outstanding Program Award and welcomed two new board members.

This Strategic Plan for Montana's Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP) outlines the program's direction and funding priorities for crisis intervention, specialized court-based programs, and gun violence reduction initiatives. Key strategic areas include supporting School Resource Officer (SRO) training for gun violence and mental health, developing school and community-based mental health programs for youth, and implementing gun violence intervention and suicide prevention programs. Additionally, the plan prioritizes training for law enforcement and first responders in behavioral health deflection and co-responder models, alongside funding for treatment courts addressing violent offenders and domestic violence victims. The plan aims to enhance public safety and crisis response in Montana, while explicitly not pursuing Extreme Risk Protection Order programs.

The State Victim Liaison Project focuses on enhancing service accessibility for victims, especially in rural and underserved areas, through targeted outreach and culturally tailored programs for the Montana American Indian population and marginalized communities. It emphasizes enhanced collaboration among agencies to streamline services, securing stable funding for program sustainability, and training initiatives on trauma-informed care and cultural awareness. The project also aims to empower communities through grassroots advocacy and tribal victim services.

The Montana Board of Crime Control's State Victim Liaison Project (2020-2025) aims to enhance victim services across Montana by implementing a statewide needs assessment, creating a comprehensive map of victim services, and establishing a unified victim services network. The project seeks to identify and address the specific needs of crime victims, improve access to resources and support, and foster collaboration among service providers. The plan also focuses on providing opportunities and resources to strengthen and sustain victim services at the program and community level.