Crime Prevention:
Crime Victims Specialists Program

Pamphlets

Download the printable pamphlet

Assists victims and their families by providing:

Crisis Intervention:

• Provides support for the victim and family at the initial stages of a case.
• Provides vital information to victim and family.
• Assistance with death notifications - may accompany a Uniform Member.
• Acts as a resource for Members in the Field.

Short Term Counseling:

• Maintains regular and frequent contact with the victim and any secondary victims, such as children, during all phases of the case.
• This may involve making numerous home or hospital visits.

Safety Planning:

• Confers with victim and children to devise a safety plan.
• Advises the victim of available services which notify of the offender's release from a correctional facility.
• Works with the District Attorney's Office to provide personal safety devices such as personal alarms and cellular phones.

Criminal Court Procedure Information:

• Explains the process to the victim/Informs victim regarding his/her rights. Acts as an advocate for the victim in obtaining Orders of Protection and opposing bail or ROR where appropriate.
• Supports the victim during Preliminary Hearings and/or Trial.
• Accompanies the victim to meetings with District Attorney staff during preparation of testimony and while testifying in court.
• Provides information to the victim on the status of the case and advises of upcoming court appearances.
• Assists the victim in providing input and collaboration with the DA's Office in the plea bargaining process.
• Assists the victim with the Victim's Impact Statement.
• Assists in obtaining the release of vital personal property of the victim.

Compensation:

• Assists the victim with the compensation claim paperwork and files the claim with the New York State Crime Victim Services agency to reimburse the victim for hospital, medical, out-of-pocket expenses, and other expenses incurred as a result of the crime.

Referrals:

• Refers the victim to long term counseling or any other available services that may be of aid.
• Works in conjunction with community domestic violence and rape crisis programs, CPS, Adult Protective Services, and other local agencies to enhance the services available to victims.
• Participates in community coalitions and task forces to stay informed and involved in local initiatives to reduce victimization and improve services to victims.

Resource:

• Provides education to the community on the issues and needs of victims.
• Acts as a liaison between the New York State Police and other service agencies.
• Represents the New York State Police on coalitions and task forces of victim service providers in their Troop areas.
• Acts as a resource for Members on the issues and needs of victims.

Crime Victims Specialists