The Justice and Community Services Section serves as West Virginia's criminal justice planning agency. It was created as a result of the 1966 executive order (7-A 66) that established the Governor's Committee on Crime, Delinquency and Correction. This committee was formed to develop a comprehensive plan that would direct efforts to improve the state's criminal justice system. Justice and Community Services staffs this committee, and strives to support its continuing mission to reduce or prevent crime and improve public safety by coordinating the efforts and impact of the criminal justice system.
As a result, JCS serves as the State Administrative Agency (SAA) for grant-funded programs provided by the U.S. Department of Justice as well as designated programs from the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, other federal agencies as necessary, and the State of West Virginia. The agency's duties include, but are not limited to: assisting in the protection of the citizens of West Virginia through research and statistics; planning and coordination of services; training and certification of law enforcement officers; program development and implementation; and, administration of grant-funded programs emphasizing safety, prevention, coordination and the general enhancement of the criminal justice system as a whole.
JCS' role in state government remains unique. Our responsibilities bridge any gaps between federal, state, and local units of government, as well as private/non-profit organizations and the general public. The agency is experienced in program administration that requires the coordination of all facets of the criminal and juvenile justice systems, including law enforcement, jails, courts, corrections, community supervision and victim services.