VICTIM/WITNESS ADVOCATE
The Powell County Office of Victim Assistance is established to assist victims of crime navigate and participate in the criminal justice system. The Advocates are specially trained to know and understand the complexity of how a criminal case proceeds, and how to assist a victim in participating in proceedings. The advocates will act as a liaison between Law Enforcement and Attorneys and act as the victim’s voice to ensure that their rights are upheld and honored.
Services are offered only to those who are a victim of crime, or have experienced domestic or sexual violence, regardless of it being reported to Law Enforcement.
SERVICES OFFERED:
- Protection orders
- Safety planning
- Applications for applicable programs
- Hearing notifications
- Victim impact assistance
- Restitution reports
- Emergency material assistance
- Emergency shelter
- Parole hearing notifications
- Participating in hearings in place of victim
- Accompaniment to interviews as necessary
- Emotional and crisis support
The list above is not an inclusive list of ALL services offered
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS:
- Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 799-7233
- Child Abuse Hotline (866) 820-5437
- Suicide Prevention Hotline (800) 273-8255
- Trans Hotline (877) 565-8860
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SHELTERS:
- Safespace
- Butte MT
- (406) 782-8511
- Friendship Center
- Helena MT
- (406)442-6800
- YWCA
- Missoula MT
- (406) 563-6691
409 Missouri Ave., Suite 108
Lower Level of Courthouse
Deer Lodge, MT 59722
Ambrel McKetchnie ‑ Victim-Witness Advocate
(406) 846-9703
(406) 846-1031 (fax)
e-mail: amcketchnie@powellcountymt.gov
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except holidays
For emergencies call Powell County Sheriff’s Office at (406) 846-2711
*Disclaimer: The office of victim assistance is grant funded through VOCA issued through Montana Board of Crime Control. Although the office has been funded since 1996, funding is not guaranteed. People seeking services must meet certain criteria. Services are not guaranteed to every individual. An Advocate can stop rendering services at any time. In this event, a participant will be notified via letter detailing why they have been disqualified from receiving services.