Victim witness specialist at the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office
25 Years Old • Fort Collins
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I was born and raised in Colorado and moved to Larimer County about seven years ago. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University in human development and family studies with a concentration in prevention and intervention and a minor in Spanish. I planned to pursue a career in education, but a part-time role as a bilingual victim witness specialist shifted my focus toward advocacy. After graduating, I accepted a full-time position and have now served in this role for nearly four years, supporting victims and strengthening community partnerships.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
I train deputies on how to recognize when victims need immediate emotional support, and I follow up with victims, update case records and work alongside investigators and deputies to ensure victims receive compassionate, informed care throughout the beginnings of the justice process. I have participated in many professional trainings, including Child Abduction Response Team Training, the National Organization for Victim Advocacy’s 48th annual training and programs through the Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance (COVA) Academy as well as sessions on secondary trauma, resilience and recovery. I also serve on the 8th Judicial Human Trafficking and The Crawford Child Advocacy Center Multi-Disciplinary Teams.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I support our agency and partner organizations by participating in collaborative groups focused on improving victim services in our county. Over the past four years, I’ve pursued numerous trainings to stay informed about available community resources and professionals. I have also served as a youth leader at my church and participated in a diversity group, providing resources to those facing language barriers and isolation. Additionally, I have mentored incoming CSU freshmen to help ease their transition into college life.
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
My greatest accomplishment is witnessing the positive impact I’ve made on families across Larimer County. Knowing my efforts help individuals navigate difficult moments with dignity, support and hope is the greatest reward. Each day, I prepare myself professionally and personally to show up with compassion, empathy and the right tools to truly make a difference. Serving my community is a deep responsibility and privilege that motivates me to keep growing and giving my best.
Tell us something unique about you.
I’ve always been drawn to butterflies. Their transformation has felt deeply symbolic of my own journey. Growing up, I saw myself in their evolution: starting in a cocoon of uncertainty, growing through life’s experiences and eventually emerging with strength and purpose, much like a butterfly taking flight.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
I envision myself continuing to support and advocate for victims through direct service, outreach and program development, meeting them where they are during challenging times. I am passionate about raising awareness and educating the community to support victims with empathy and respect. My commitment to ongoing professional development helps me expand my knowledge and become a more effective, compassionate resource.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
It would be to fully embrace and enjoy every experience and opportunity because that’s when you truly grow and learn the most. I’d also encourage myself to take advantage of every opportunity that comes my way and be open to trying new things. Often it’s the unexpected paths that lead to discovering passions and possibilities you never imagined.
Why are you passionate about victim advocacy?
Victim advocacy enables me to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals experiencing profound hardship. Standing beside people during their most vulnerable moments, and offering them support, guidance and a voice when they feel silenced, is a profound privilege. My lifelong commitment to helping others and contributing to my community drives my dedication to this field. Each interaction is an opportunity to instill hope, foster resilience and assure victims they are not alone. This work transcends my career—it is a heartfelt calling that I am honored to pursue every day.
What got you interested in working for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office?
I saw it as a chance to give back to my community in a way I hadn’t imagined before. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone and away from my initial career path, allowing me to grow and explore new possibilities. That experience gave me the space to reflect on my goals and passions, ultimately expanding my perspective. What truly stood out, though, was the incredible support and teamwork within the unit. Being part of a group that is so dedicated to serving others has made this opportunity even more meaningful.
Local business shoutout:
A business I’d love to give a shoutout to is The Human Bean. Their team is always cheerful and welcoming, making every visit feel like a treat. But what truly sets them apart is their consistent support for the community. They regularly give back to first responders and volunteers throughout Larimer County and go out of their way to show their appreciation. They’ve done a lot for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office Victim Response Team, recognizing both staff and volunteers every year. Their kindness, generosity and community spirit make them a standout local business.
