MAYOR-PRESIDENT BOULET AND SHERIFF GARBER RELAUNCH CRIMINAL JUSTICE COORDINATING COMMITTEE

Lafayette, LA –Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet and Sheriff Mark Garber kicked off the reestablishment of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee (CJCC) on February 8, an initiative aimed at addressing critical issues within the criminal justice system in Lafayette Parish.

The CJCC represents a collaborative effort between elected and appointed executive-level policymakers in local jurisdictions with a primary focus on enhancing communication, coordination, and efficiency across all facets of the criminal justice system. By fostering partnerships among law enforcement agencies, judiciary, corrections, and community organizations, the CJCC aims to streamline processes, reduce recidivism, and promote fairness and equity in the administration of justice.

The guiding principles for the CJCC are as follows:

• Create a criminal justice system that is fair, just, and equitable.
• Enhance public safety and trust.
• Think systemically and strategically.
• Communicate and share information.
• Collaborate, build consensus, and share responsibility.
• Utilize data and research.
• Pursue innovation and evidence-based solutions.
• Maximize existing resources and taxpayer funds.
• Inform and involve the community.
• Include diverse perspectives in all aspects.
• Embrace transparency and accountability.

The following agencies were invited to the relaunch meeting on February 8: Lafayette Consolidated Government, Lafayette Sheriff’s Office, Lafayette Police Department, 15^th Judicial District Court, City Court, Probation and Parole, Lafayette School Board, Juvenile Detention Center, Clerk of Court, Acadiana Area Human Services District, District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Drug Court, Lafayette City Marshal, Parish Council, City Council, Beacon Community Connections, Lafayette Fire Department, and UL Lafayette.

"Today marks a significant step forward in our ongoing commitment to ensuring a fair and effective criminal justice system for all residents of Lafayette Parish," says Mayor-President Monique Blanco Boulet. "The Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee will serve as a vital platform for collaboration, enabling us to identify challenges, implement evidence-based solutions, and ultimately enhance public safety and trust."

Sheriff Mark Garber emphasized his commitment to the initiative, stating, "As stewards of public safety, it is incumbent upon us to continuously evaluate and improve the systems we rely on to uphold justice. The establishment of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee underscores our collective dedication to fostering innovation and accountability within our criminal justice system."

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