Why We Exist - Action - Commitment - Resolution

WHY WE EXIST: Javad Marshall Fields, had just graduated from Colorado State University and he was expected to be a key witness in the trial of his friend Gregory Vann, who had been killed. But on the night of June 20, 2005, less than a week before the trial was set to begin. Javad and his fiancée Vivian Wolfe, were both shot and killed as they sat in their car at an intersection in Aurora. More than eight months after their deaths, three men were charged with the deaths of Marshall Fields and Wolfe. However, no one should have to give up their lives, like Javad and Vivian did, while trying to help put criminals behind bars. That is why your support is needed to ensure justice is found in our court system.

ACTION: Spurred by the tragic deaths of their children, the mothers of Javad and Vivian are working hard with Colorado’s legislators to strengthen the State’s Witness Protection program. To that end, State Representative Michael Garcia and State Senator Nancy Spence, introduced a House Bill 1379 would help ensure the safety of witnesses and victims by training district attorneys throughout Colorado regarding the states witness protection program. In addition, the bill encourages law enforcement agencies and victims advocate to develop risk-assessments tools to promote safety and securities standards for citizens involved in judicial proceeding. The legislature should pass, and the governor should sign, this very necessary legislation.

COMMITMENT: Much work remains to be done. We must protect future witnesses. We cannot allow a “No Snitching” campaign to interfere with critical information needed for police and prosecutors to solve crimes. We much stop community-wide intimidation and fear by making it safe for victims and witnesses to cooperate with the justice system. Our goals are to increase public safety and confidence, reduce citizen fear and promote cooperative and more productive relationships between residents and the justice and law enforcement systems designed to protect us. Our committee is on a campaign to support police officers and prosecutors.

RESOLUTION: Therefore, on the anniversary of the killing of Javad Marshall-Fields and Vivian Wolfe; Tuesday, June 20, 2006, the committee for “It’s About Partnerships: Our Theme: The Power of a Witness: Justice and Social Responsibility.” We must make Colorado a safe place for victims and citizens to stand up and speak out against crime. The Fields/Wolfe foundation will host a community celebration of their lives and their commitment to justice.