GOLDEN, Colo. (Oct. 26, 2023) – People with active warrants for non-violent, low-level offenses in Gilpin or Jefferson counties will once again have an opportunity to resolve their case without arrest as Colorado’s First Judicial District hosts another Fresh Start event at the Jefferson County Administration and Courts Facility on Saturday, November 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This collaborative event resolves low-level offenses that would otherwise result in arrests and court appearances, which can adversely affect defendants who wish to take responsibility. Additionally, clearing warrants saves taxpayers thousands of dollars and preserves law enforcement resources to focus on higher-level and violent crimes.
Our last event in May was our most successful yet. Here are some key takeaways:
- 99 warrants were cleared by either setting a new court date, re-engaging in probation, enrolling in Pathways, or resolving their case entirely.
- 39 probation violation warrants were addressed. Most were quashed and assigned a new court date, 15 were closed or terminated, and some complaints were withdrawn.
- 39 non-DUI traffic warrants were resolved, with the majority being for No Proof of Insurance. Many individuals were able to show proof of insurance, and their case was dismissed.
The event is open to individuals who have non-violent, low-level felonies that have been reclassified as misdemeanors, along with some low-level felony drug and property offenses. Public defenders will again be available to review eligibility and provide legal consultation to qualifying defendants at no cost. To check eligibility for probation violation cases, individuals should email [email protected], and for all other cases, email [email protected].
As always, the event excludes people charged or convicted of an offense under the Victim Rights Act – such as assault, child abuse, unlawful sexual contact, or domestic violence. In addition, people with weapons offenses and those with second or subsequent cases involving driving under the influence or driving while ability impaired are not eligible for the event.
Several community partners – including the Community Connections Center (C3), Jefferson County Public Health, Benefits in Action, Hazelbrook Sober Living, Bayaud Enterprises, Ke’nekt, Community Economic Defense Project, Front Range Clinic, Master’s Apprentice, and Behavioral Treatment Services – will also be on-site to provide information and resources. At our last event, there were approximately 107 connections; peer services, Narcan, employment, and transportation were the most visited resources.
Fresh Start is a collaborative effort between First Judicial District Attorney Alexis King, the Colorado State Public Defender’s Office, the First Judicial District Courts, First Judicial District Probation Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Justice Services, and C3.
Please visit Fresh Start | Jefferson County, CO (jeffco.us) for more information.