Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

Mission Statement:  The Criminal Justice Coordination Council exists to improve the safety of the citizens of Lewis and Clark County and ensure the equitable and efficient treatment of defendants, offenders, and victims.

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) was established in 2012 by the Lewis and Clark County Board of County Commissioners to bring together leaders from across the local justice system to work toward a safer, fairer, and more effective criminal justice system.

The CJCC focuses on making the best use of limited resources by coordinating activities and reducing duplication of effort. It aims to enhance public safety by ensuring the system works together as one integrated, effective network. The Council also recognizes the unique needs of Lewis and Clark County and empowers local leaders to develop their own solutions—shifting from a “top-down” to a “bottom-up” approach that reflects community priorities and values.

The Council studies how our justice system functions, identifies challenges and opportunities for improvement, raises public awareness, and coordinates efforts across agencies. Together, members develop plans and programs that make the system more efficient, cost-effective, and responsive to the people it serves.

In 2018, Lewis and Clark County’s CJCC was honored to be selected as one of only 40 councils nationwide to join the National Network of Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils (NNCJCC). Led by the Justice Management Institute, this network connects councils across the country to share ideas, learn from one another, and strengthen justice systems nationwide.