s_jud_2018a_2018-01-22t13:34:47z2 Hearing Summary

Senator Cooke, co-prime sponsor, explained SB 18-014.  The bill requires the Department of Corrections (DOC) to notify the prosecuting attorney and any registered victim within 48 hours of its decision to relocate an inmate to another state under the Interstate Corrections Compact.  This disclosure is required to include the location of the facility unless under certain circumstances.  The bill also outlines procedures when exemptions from disclosure exist. 

Senator Fields, co-prime sponsor, spoke to victims' rights.  She presented Amendment L.003 (Attachment D) and explained that it removes the district attorney veto power and creates a process for disputed cases.

Travis Trani, Director of DOC, spoke in support of the bill.  He explained that the Interstate Corrections Compact is critical for safety, but it is important to balance that with a victim's desire to know where the perpetrator is located.  He expressed appreciation for the amendment, which defines a process for disagreements between a district attorney and the DOC. 

Bryon Sparling, representing the Department of Corrections, explained the Interstate Corrections Compact and its application. 

Emily Tofte Nestaval, representing the Rocky Mountain Victim Law Center, spoke in opposition to the bill.  She expressed appreciation for the intent but has concerns it conflicts with other victims' rights. 

Tom Sullivan, representing himself, spoke in favor of the bill.  He discussed the DOC victim notification program, and explained that it took much maneuvering to find out the location of an inmate who had moved out of state.

Theresa Hoover, representing herself, spoke in support of the measure.  She explained the importance of knowing an inmate's location from a victim's perspective.

George Brauchler, District Attorney for the 18th Judicial District, spoke in support of the bill.  He stressed that victims are entitled to dignity and respect and that DOC could do a better job of managing victim notification. 

Rich Orman, supervising attorney for the appellate unit at the District Attorney for the 18th Judicial District, spoke in favor of the bill and stated that it's a necessary means of vindicating the rights of victims.

Tim Lopez, representing the Denver Democrats, testified in support of the bill and provided a personal testimonial on the importance of victims' rights. 

Arnold Hanuman, representing the Colorado District Attorneys' Council, spoke in support fo the bill and the need for transparency and accountability. 

Senator Cooke read a statement into the record from Christine Ridgeway in support of the bill.