This newsletter is meant to compile important resources and information related to critical sectors of state services. The original information found here was shared with the Utah Multicultural Commission at its last public meeting in August. It is being reshared to expand opportunity and greater access to Utah’s communities. 

Explore resources below!

The Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice (CCJJ), established in 1983, coordinates statewide efforts to develop and implement effective criminal and juvenile justice policies. The commission is composed of experts from various fields, working collaboratively to fulfill their statutory responsibilities by advising on and informing policies that impact the justice system and individuals across Utah. The CCJJ is made up of different commissions and divisions that help move forward their purpose to coordinate the efforts of criminal justice stakeholders across the state.

CCJJ collaborates with the Utah Board of Juvenile Justice, the Juvenile Justice Oversight Committee, and the Racial and Ethnic Disparities Collaborative to advance fair, equitable juvenile justice policies that address the unique needs of system-impacted youth and prioritize rehabilitation efforts.The Office of Homeless Services is excited to implement this new state homelessness strategic plan with the Utah Homelessness Council and the Utah Homelessness Network. 

The plan identifies best practices and areas for improvement, ensuring all services are provided in a safe, cost-effective and efficient manner. It outlines gaps and recommends solutions for ensuring homelessness is rare, brief and non-recurring for Utahns. 

Established in 1993, the Utah Sentencing Commission advises the Legislature, Governor, and Judicial Council on sentencing and release policies for adults and juveniles who commit crimes. The Commission also develops sentencing guidelines and promotes evidence-based policies that focus on three key goals: risk management, risk reduction, and restitution.

Created in 2016, the Utah Indigent Defense Commission (IDC) ensures constitutionally protected liberties by supporting effective indigent defense services statewide. The IDC collaborates with state and local governments, defense providers, and stakeholders to provide guidance, set standards, gather data, award funding, promote regional defense services, and expand continuing legal education for indigent defense attorneys.

Established in 2023, the Utah Victim Services Commission aims to reduce and eliminate the impact of crime on victims through a unified, evidence-based approach to prevention, treatment, and trauma-informed justice. In partnership with state agencies and community organizations, the Commission fulfills nine statutory responsibilities.

The Utah Office for Victims of Crime was established by the Utah Legislature in February 1986. The mission of the office focuses on advocating for the rights and needs of victims of crime in Utah by assisting in their restoration through financial compensation and other victim services.

 Mapping Youth Interactions with Law Enforcement

Data Resources | Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice

The CCJJ shares data and research to help the public and lawmakers understand how location and socioeconomic factors influence delinquent behavior and interactions with the justice system. This information aims to foster understanding of broader community influences on youth behavior.

Safe at Home Program

Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice

Utah's Safe at Home Program offers survivors of abuse, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, and sexual assault a substitute address and mail forwarding service to protect their location. It is designed to increase safety for those who fear physical danger if their perpetrator knows their address. All state and local agencies in Utah must accept the substitute address, enhancing a comprehensive safety plan for survivors.

Utah Justice Grants

Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice

CCJJ provides state and federal grant funding to Utah state agencies, counties, municipalities, and local organizations that offer programs and services aimed at strengthening the criminal justice system in Utah.

KNOW THE RESOURCES IN DEPTH

KNOW THE ORGANIZATIONS

Directory of State Organizations

POLICY-INFORMED, COMMUNITY-DRIVEN

The Utah Multicultural Commission is a community-informed and policy-driven advisory body overseen by the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs. It focuses on building relationships with state partners and community ambassadors to elevate the needs and concerns of historically underserved and underrepresented Utahns. Our Commissioners serve a variety of communities across the state and build bridges of understanding and collaboration. Join our meetings and learn more about our efforts by clicking the link below.

Resources compiled by:

PLEASE NOTE: The views and opinions expressed in content from partner agencies do not necessarily reflect the views of the Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs. Information found at external links on partner websites do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the Utah Department of Cultural and Community Engagement (CCE), Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs, or divisions associated with CCE. The intent of this resource is to centralize information, not to endorse.