May 2014

It’s been a whirlwind these last six weeks as I’ve assumed Mark’s job. I tried to absorb all of Marks wisdom, experience, knowledge and expertise in two short weeks but the reality is, you can’t. I’m just glad that Mark’s only a phone call away. Thankfully Marilyn, Ed, Donna and Ron, as well as the rest of the staff here have been a tremendous help. Thanks to you all! Exciting things are happening, and I wanted to share just a couple with you. Donna Kelly and Det. Justin Boardman of the West Valley Police Department are beginning a year-long, nationally sponsored, study to develop a protocol for interviewing trauma victims. There are currently no protocols available on how to deal with or interview victims of traumatic experiences; sexual assault, violent assault, DV, etc. Because of their work, Utah is receiving national attention. Donna has already been invited to speak at several conferences next year on this study. “Trauma Informed Response” is a new way for officers, prosecutors, judges, juries, victim advocates, etc. to look at the way victims of trauma respond. I’ve sat through a couple of their training sessions and walked away with a whole new insight and perspective on how victims react to trauma and how they relate the events they went through. Donna and Det. Boardman have developed specific training that will truly open your and your officer’s eyes. Please take advantage of their expertise. Other changes I hope you’ll start to see include a revamping of UPC’s website. I want to make it more user friendly – meaning that you can come to our website and find valuable resources to use in your practice. Examples include a “Motion Bank,” a Q&A section, short training videos, “How To” manuals, items for your own personal “Tool Box” and so much more. Please let me know what we can do for you. What kind of training would you like to see? What works and what doesn’t? Do you know someone who would make a great presenter at a future conference? Would you like to be a presenter at a future conference? How can we make the newsletter better? How can we be a better resource? How can we make you a better attorney, prosecutor? If you’ve got ideas, please let us know.

Best,

Bob