What the Commission Does

The Parallel Justice commission is made up of local and state leaders, victim advocates, survivors of crime, social services providers, health care providers and other organizations who often work with victims of crime.

The commission provides a formal venue for victims of crime to share their stories.  This official forum helps to validate the experience of victims.  In addition, the commission is tasked with removing barriers to victim participation in the criminal justice process, and addressing systemic changes needed to better meet victims’ needs. 

The commission meets quarterly to review cases, hear highlights of the program, and report on action items.  For more information on the Parallel Justice Commission, please contact Sharon Davis.

Who the Commission is

1. Chief Michael Schirling, Burlington Police Department

1. Cathleen Wilson, Executive Director, Women’s Rape Crisis Center

1. Anna LaPerle, Crime Victim Advisor, Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services

1. Carol Davis, Legal Director, Women Helping Battered Women

1. Kelly Dougherty, Director of Government Grants, Planned Parenthood

1. Ann Atkins, Director, Safe Space

1. Clarence Davis, University of Vermont

1. Emily Anderson, VSA Arts of Vermont

1. Debbie Thibault, Superintendent, Department of Corrections: Burlington

1. Jane Helmstetter, Field Director, Agency of Human Services

1. Judy Rex, Executive Director, Vt. Center for Crime Victim Services

1. TJ Donovan Chittenden County State’s Attorney

1. Armina Medic State’s Attorney Victim Advocate

1. Jason Williams, Government Relations Specialist , Fletcher Allen Healthcare

1. Heather Danis, Vermont Department of Health

1. Suzi Wizowaty, Representative to Vermont State Legislature