James E. Simonetti Memorial Scholarship Fund

My name is Jodi Custred. I am currently attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania, studying Criminology and Sociology in the dual baccalaureate program. I plan on also attending IUP's graduate school for both degrees. Personally, I feel as though I would not be a great fit for strictly law enforcement positions. However, I think I can make an active change in the community by working as a social worker or victim advocate, as well as advocating for change in our justice system. By becoming a social worker or victim advocate, I can comfort, protect, and serve children and families who are victims of violent crimes, such as abuse. And while I'm not opposed to becoming law enforcement, I do think that I am more skilled in a profession that uses counseling and goal-planning and skills-based communication and achievement rather than enforcing laws and protecting citizens, with the risk of my life being on the line. I am sorry to find that Jim Simonetti has passed. I'm sure he was an excellent police officer. I do find that in my profession I will be able to also work closely with law enforcement, as well as educate officer, both young and old, on the importance of being trauma-informed, domestic violence issues, substance abuse, and so many other sensitive topics. We frequently see victims of related crimes not liking police, even hating them. But I want to educate police officers to bring them closer to the community, as well as lobbying for protection of victims in legislature. I truly believe that by closing this gap between community and law enforcement, we would see far less crime, victimization, injury, and death. Furthermore, I have worked for Bethany Beach Police Department (Delaware) and Alice Paul House (Indiana's DV/SA Shelter- Non-Profit), which has broadened my awareness on what is good, what can be fixed, and what absolutely needs to change in terms of how we serve our community. I found that in these jobs, many officers are not equipped with the understanding of the intricacies of certain crimes. Furthermore, with a non-profit organization, they are very knowledgeable on the laws pertaining to the crimes they advocate for, but they tend to have strained relationships with law enforcement. Once again, my goal is to help and heal families and children, change our justice system and how each department interacts, and bridging the gap between law enforcement, advocates, and our community. I believe many areas can be improved upon that would benefit how our system works.