By Redaccion
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The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office has identified the City of Thousand Oaks as the most suitable location for the East County Family Justice Center (FJC).
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko made the announcement during today’s Board of Supervisors meeting.
“The priority here is to bring essential services to East County to support victims who are experiencing trauma and devastating crimes,” said District Attorney Nasarenko. “One of the core principles of the Family Justice Center regionalization effort is to eliminate transportation barriers and maximize access for victims in need.”
Thousand Oaks was chosen after an extensive evaluation process to determine the best location in eastern Ventura County. Factors such as crime data, geography, community input, and cost-sharing commitments from local leaders were all considered. The recommendation was further informed by a report from Alliance for Hope, an international organization that specializes in establishing Family Justice Centers worldwide. The final decision on the center’s location will require future approval by the Board of Supervisors.
“Family Justice Centers are transformative and lifesaving,” said District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell. “I am committed to ensuring this center becomes a regional resource for everyone in East County.”
“I am thrilled that these vital services will soon be available in East County,” said District 4 Supervisor Janice Parvin. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact of the East County Family Justice Center.”
The ultimate location within Thousand Oaks will depend on several criteria. The facility must be available for purchase (not lease), measure between 8,000 and 12,000 square feet, be conveniently located near transportation and medical centers, and include open space for youth recreational activities. The search for a suitable site is currently underway.
The Family Justice Center model provides a holistic approach to supporting victims and their families, offering a safe environment to recover, heal, and break the cycle of violence. The Ventura County Family Justice Center already operates two locations in Ventura and Oxnard. The planned East County FJC in Thousand Oaks will become the third such facility in the county.
For more information about the Ventura County Family Justice Center and its work, visit www.vcfjc.org.
