In February of 2000, former Sheriff, George Epp began his campaign to promote community policing. The
Restorative Justice program developed out of that effort with the help of Summer Deaton.
Initially the program started with Community Group Conferencing for young offenders who committed low-level
crimes. Our facilitators have expanded their skills to include peace-making circles and over time the program has
expanded to include adults and higher-level crimes as the process proved successful.
When Joe Pelle took office in 2003, he gave his support to the Restorative Justice process and program. Sheriff
Pelle has focused on character development and open communication both internally and in our endeavors in the
community. The Restorative Justice program provides both victims and offenders the opportunity to develop in this
same manner. The community partnerships created through this process exemplifies the dedication of the Boulder
County Sheriff’s Office to the communities we serve.
In 2007, the Restorative Justice team completed 58 conferences and served 58 harmed parties, 95 responsible
parties, and 116 community members who were affected by conflicts and criminal acts. We plan to continue providing
Boulder County with a capable, innovative team of volunteer facilitators, who can work with a range of offenses
and other issues associated with crime and conflict in our community.
If you are interested in becoming a part of this team please do not hesitate to contact the current Program
Coordinator, Lesly Leach at (303) 441 - 1752.
