ASHLEY ZUNIGA
Kissimmee,FL
Summary
Criminal Mitigation/Investigator Specialist with over 10 years of extensive experience in complex state and federal investigations. Demonstrated ability in resource management and records maintenance while collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency in high-pressure environments. Proven track record of translating attorney needs into actionable plans, conducting thorough investigations, and delivering optimal results through keen analytical skills and a commitment to confidentiality. A strong client service focus combined with leadership capabilities enhances the mentoring and development of team members.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
CHU Investigator
Federal Defenders Middle District
, USA
04.2023 - Current
- Contract for special project 2255. Client on federal death row, pardoned this January under Bidens Administration and given Clemency.
- Analyzes the significant of information obtained relevant to factual themes and circumstances; and prepares summary reports on the information collected.
- Collaborates and consults with the defense team to develop and present evidence throughout all stages of the legal proceedings. Keeps attorneys abreast of relevant issues and findings; seeks direction regarding case strategies; and makes recommendations for further investigations. Assists in identifying potential witnesses and selecting exchanging information with experts.
Mitigation Specialist
State of Florida Public Defenders Office 9th Circuit
, USA
10.2015 - 04.2023
- Served as an agency expert and resource in criminal defense investigations.
- Knowledge in PACER, Tlox, Accurint, CCIS, and Spillman databases, Background checks/ Screenings.
- Trained mitigation specialist through our UCF BSW/MSW Partnership Program to include prioritizing and assigning work, conducting performance evaluations, ensuring employees are well trained, ensuring that employees follow policies and procedures.
- Locating and establishing relationships with witnesses. Organize and arrange travel for witness interviews domestically and internationally. Coordinates witness travel for trial and pretrial hearings and other events are necessary.
- Documents and organizes information collected from a variety of formats and media. Scans, indexes, and bookmarks discovery, records, and digital images. Creates charts for collecting and recording information collected; and creates trial notebook for organizing discovery and records for defense team. Works with attorneys closely in preparing the presentation of mitigation and mitigation witnesses.
- Front-end-investigation on any major homicide cases. Handled all Juvenile cases with wraparound services. Handled all Competency Court cases. Knowledge in sex crimes.
Volunteer & Internship Opportunity
Osceola County Corrections
Kissimmee, USA
01.2011 - 10.2015
- Conducted approximately 15 risk assessments a day on offenders and completed background checks on CJIS to verify potential candidates for program pod.
- Situated offenders in classes which best matched their needs, such as, educational and life skills courses, vocational training, and behavioral/mental management classes.
- Provided case management on approximately 10 offenders a day and provided them with the re-entry resources needed.
- Ensured gained time was awarded appropriately to offenders. Observed classes and rehabilitation centers to ensure effectiveness.
- Counseled inmates on any form of misconduct that went against programs guidelines.
Education
Masters of Science - Criminal Justice
Southern New Hampshire University
01.2020
Bachelor of Science - Criminology & Criminal Justice
Florida State University
01.2015
Skills
- Case analysis
- Evidence presentation
- Witness coordination
- Data management
- Background checks
- Legal research
- Records management
- Report generation
- Client collaboration
- Case management
- Witness interviewing
- Effective communication
- Multitasking
- Customer service
- Written communication
References
- Megan Kerrigan, Federal CHU Investigation, Tennessee, 561-866-8093
- Crystal Broadway, Assistant Public Defender 9th Circuit, FL Osceola County Assistant Supervisor, 321-749-6445
- Amina Ahzar, Federal CHU Investigator, California, 952-239-6112
Languages
Spanish
Professional
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
CHU Investigator
Federal Defenders Middle District
04.2023 - Current
Mitigation Specialist
State of Florida Public Defenders Office 9th Circuit
10.2015 - 04.2023
Volunteer & Internship Opportunity
Osceola County Corrections
01.2011 - 10.2015
Masters of Science - Criminal Justice
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor of Science - Criminology & Criminal Justice
Florida State University
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