Competency Process Testimony, September 2025

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The Power of Second Chances

Hello, everyone. My name is Lottie Elliott, and my story isn’t a straight line—it's a jagged path of survival and transformation. Imagine being declared incompetent by the State of Colorado three times and having  24 mugshots—and that's just in El Paso County. Add to that the times I've been to Adams and  Teller counties, and you get a clearer picture of my past. Yet, here I am today, a mother, grandmother, and a Peer Recovery Specialist, a Qualified Behavioral Health Assistant, and a CCAR Facilitator. My journey is  proof that change is possible, even after years of struggle.

 

I have achieved so much in my recovery. As of August 2025, I graduated with my Associate of General Studies degree. And this semester, I became one of just two students to start the new Bachelor of Science program at Pikes Peak State College. I am also halfway through a certification of understanding  in American Sign Language. My education is a crucial part of my journey.

 

Three times, I was deemed incompetent by the Colorado state courts. This wasn't just a legal label; it was a profound reflection of the deep-seated struggles I faced. In Colorado, being declared incompetent means the court has determined you are unable to understand the legal proceedings against you or assist in your own defense. It's a suspension of your rights and a testament to how deeply my addiction and mental health crises had consumed my life. My mugshots tell a story of a system that often failed to provide the support I desperately needed. I experienced firsthand the lack of trauma-informed care within the justice system, and I also endured years of domestic violence. My recovery began just three years ago. During that time, as I got sober, I also had to fight and survive a cancer diagnosis. It was a testament to the fact that healing isn't always linear.

During my last jail sentence, which lasted over 425 days, I found a glimmer of hope. Bridges of Colorado was the only organization that communicated with me and gave me the hope that saved my life. I'm now a proud board member of the Bridges of Colorado Lived Experience Advisory Council. My recovery journey is now my greatest strength. I've become a Peer Recovery Specialist, a role that allows me to use my lived experience to support others on their own paths to recovery. I also work for Hazelbrook as a QBHA and for Unbreakable Ministries.

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A Call to Action

My story highlights critical gaps in our system. We need to shift our focus from just treating the symptoms to addressing the root causes that drive individuals into the justice system. The system often fails to provide holistic care, and it's something I want to change. I am a living example of how trauma-informed care, accessible mental health services, and support for survivors can transform lives. My journey from being deemed incompetent to learning my associate's degree and starting a bachelor's program shows the power of second chances. Soon, I will be working on my BAS in social work with a dream of becoming a forensic social worker.

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So, how can we make a difference? We can:

• Invest in community-based programs that provide holistic, mobile care—like having psychiatrists available for home visits instead of just telehealth.

• Implement mandatory trauma-informed training for law enforcement and court personnel.

• Prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. We need to advocate for policies that consider each individual case unique needs rather than relying on mass incarceration.

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My Commitment

I am here to be a call to action and a beacon of hope. My journey proves that transformation is possible, even from the most challenging circumstances. I am committed to using my experience to advocate for change and create a more just and compassionate system. I hope my story inspires you to believe in the power of second chances and to join me in working towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you. 

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Addendum

Jan 2025 I was given early termination from my probation sentence. As I stood in front of the Honorable  Judge Magistrate, she said to me, “In all my years doing this Ms. Elliott, I have never seen someone change their life like you have standing here before me. ​Please, if I can have the court room's attention.” The entire  court room stopped working and the Magistrate said, “Four years ago, Ms. Elliott, when I put you out to  sober living, incompetent, I had chalked it up you would come back dead. And even two years ago, when you got to attend a pilot program, I was not sure you would come back alive… and here you are today.”