Boulder County, Colo. - The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the 25th anniversary of its Restorative Justice Program, a milestone that highlights a quarter-century of fostering accountability, healing, and community connection.

Since its launch in 2000, the program has provided an alternative path for those impacted by crime, bringing together victims, offenders, and community members to address harm and promote meaningful repair. Over the past 25 years, more than a thousand individuals have participated, helping make Boulder County a stronger and safer place.

“Restorative justice is about more than responding to crime, it’s about building understanding and restoring trust,” said Sheriff Johnson. “We are proud to celebrate this anniversary and the countless stories of healing and accountability it represents.”

The program emphasizes collaboration, dialogue, and responsibility over traditional punitive approaches. Its success would not be possible without the dedication of staff, volunteers, community partners, and the courage of participants who engage in the process.

To honor the 25th anniversary, the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office hosted an event at the sheriff’s office that featured remarks from former sheriff George Epp, who served as sheriff when the program was launched.

“Reaching this milestone shows the power of community-based solutions and the character of our amazing volunteers,” said Restorative Justice Program Coordinator Devi Suess. “We look forward to continuing this work for the next 25 years and beyond.”

For more information about the Restorative Justice Program or how to get involved, please boco.org/SheriffRestorativeJustice.