February 22, 2025

Key Budget Recommendations Unveiled for Justice Enhancement

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News Summary

The Delaware Department of Justice presented its budget recommendations to the Joint Finance Committee, highlighting the need for improved funding to support victim services and retain DOJ staff. Attorney General Kathy Jennings emphasized the importance of addressing crime effectively. Additional support is sought for public defenders, non-judicial agencies, and enhancements to the judicial branch. These proposals reflect a commitment to bolster the justice system in Delaware and improve community safety.

Key Budget Recommendations Unveiled to Enhance Justice in Delaware

The Delaware Department of Justice recently took center stage as it presented its budget recommendations to the state’s Joint Finance Committee. In a meeting where public safety and justice were the main topics, Attorney General Kathy Jennings spearheaded the discussion, emphasizing a commitment to addressing crime head-on and ensuring residents are protected.

Financial Allocation for Victim Services

As part of the budget proposals, the Department has requested approximately $162,700 to adjust the funding for two vital Victim Service Specialist positions. Last year saw a significant shift when federal grant funding for these specialists was eliminated, making this request for general fund support all the more crucial. Acknowledging the challenges of retaining talent, Jennings stressed the need for better pay to keep employees from leaving. The sentiment was clear: the department simply cannot afford a high turnover rate in such essential roles.

Focus on Retaining DOJ Employees

In addition to assistance for victim services, the budget proposal further outlined a robust request for $5.5 million dedicated to the recruitment and retention of Department of Justice staff members. Keeping skilled and experienced personnel is paramount for the efficiency of the justice system, as higher retention rates lead to more effective public safety operations.

Public Defenders Looking for Support

Meanwhile, the Delaware Defense Office, under the leadership of Chief Defender Kevin O’Connell, also made its case for budgetary support. They requested $23,400 to annualize personnel costs for a client services program coordinator. Moreover, the department see the need for an additional $407,000 to fund the Body-Worn Camera Program, primarily to manage the increasing costs associated with evidence management.

Non-Judicial Agencies Join the Conversation

The non-judicial agencies such as the Delaware Office of the Public Guardian and the Delaware Office of the Child Advocate also presented their budgetary needs. The Public Guardian Office sought $9,000 to implement a new cloud-based financial case management system and an additional $84,900 to add a Senior Guardian case manager due to heavy workloads. On the other side, the Child Advocate Office requested $82,100 for a Family Services Program Support administrator and $66,300 in response to losses from the Crime Victims Act grant funding.

Budget Proposals from the Judicial Branch

Shifting gears, the Delaware Judicial Branch was the first to present, with Chief Justice Collins Seitz, Jr. leading the charge. Proposed financial enhancements included $885,000 for two additional magistrates and $165,800 to appoint an extra judge in the Kent County Family Court. The need for more judges was underscored by the population growth in Kent County, which hasn’t seen an increase in Family Court judges since 2000. There were also requests not included in the governor’s recommended budget, such as $487,000 for the Court Interpreter Program and $526,100 for staffing support in the Court of Chancery to keep up with the growing demand for cases.

Ongoing Developments

As the various departments and agencies make their cases in front of the Joint Finance Committee, the discussion surrounding the budget remains dynamic. The proposals reflect a concerted effort to bolster the justice system and victim support in Delaware, and updates on these budget recommendations are expected throughout the day. It’s clear that everyone involved is committed to making the needed improvements that will help keep communities safe and effectively served.