The St. Mary’s County State’s Attorney’s Office has been awarded a $496,216 Victims of Crime Act grant for fiscal year 2027. The funding, announced June 30, 2026, will support the office’s Victim Services Division.
State’s Attorney Jaymi Sterling highlighted the importance of the grant. “Every victim deserves to be heard, supported, and treated with dignity,” she said. “This grant allows us to continue providing the experienced advocates and resources that victims rely on during the most difficult moments of their lives. We are grateful for GOCPP’s continued partnership and investment in victim services, which enables us to strengthen the support we provide to the citizens of St. Mary’s County.”
The grant will fund 100% of six positions and 30% of one additional position in the Victim Services Division. Specifically, it will support one Director position and six Victim Witness Advocate Coordinator positions. The funding ensures uninterrupted continuation of critical services for crime victims and witnesses.
Since the beginning of Sterling’s administration, the office has successfully secured a total of $2,154,345 in grants dedicated to victim services in St. Mary’s County. Combined with other grant awards, the office has secured a total of $2,529,224 in grant funding. Sterling created the Victim Services Division in 2023 to provide comprehensive support for crime victims and witnesses.
Jessika Hall, Chief of Staff for the State’s Attorney’s Office, successfully wrote and prepared the competitive VOCA grant application.
The project is supported by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy under VOCG-2027-0030. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the State or Federal agency.
The Victim Services Division plays a vital role in St. Mary’s County by assisting victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process. Advocates provide emotional support, help with court processes, connect victims to resources and ensure their voices are heard.
For Southern Maryland residents in St. Mary’s County, the grant ensures continued access to these services. The division supports victims of all types of crime, including violent offenses, domestic violence, sexual assault and other serious cases.
The funding comes at a time when demand for victim services remains high. The division’s advocates work closely with law enforcement, courts and community partners to provide coordinated support.
Sterling’s administration has prioritized victim services since taking office. The creation of the dedicated division and successful grant applications demonstrate a commitment to supporting those affected by crime in St. Mary’s County.
The Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy administers VOCA funds to support victim assistance programs across Maryland. The competitive grant process rewards strong applications that demonstrate clear need and effective program design.
Jessika Hall’s work in preparing the application was instrumental in securing the funding. Her efforts ensure that St. Mary’s County victims continue to receive high-quality services.
The grant will allow the Victim Services Division to maintain staffing levels and expand capacity to meet the needs of the community. Advocates play a crucial role in helping victims navigate the often complex criminal justice system.
St. Mary’s County residents who have been victims of crime are encouraged to reach out to the State’s Attorney’s Office for support. The division provides confidential services tailored to individual needs.
This latest grant brings the total funding secured for victim services under Sterling’s leadership to more than $2.5 million. The investment reflects the office’s dedication to treating victims with dignity and providing comprehensive support.
The Victim Services Division continues to evolve to meet emerging needs in the community. The grant ensures stability and the ability to respond effectively to victims’ needs in St. Mary’s County.
