11 March, 2009

CRIME VICTIMS GET SUPPORT

CRIME VICTIMS CONTINUE TO GET SUPPORT THROUGH
DC SUPERIOR COURT’S COMPENSATION PROGRAM

The policy of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is to treat all victims in a respectful, responsive and compassionate manner. To that end, the department’s Victim Specialists Unit provides support, information, and referrals to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Victim Specialists in the unit act as a support system and conduit for victims/survivors; with hope of empowering victims. Moreover, the Victim Specialists Unit aims to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of the District of Columbia by establishing relationships with the community and being a resource for victims and their families.

In addition to providing support and services, the Victim Specialists Unit also helps victims coordinate with the crime Victims Compensation Program (CVCP). The CVCP, administered by the Superior Court of DC assists innocent victims of violent crime and their families with crime-related expenses such as funeral and burial costs, medical and mental health costs, lost wages, loss of support and services, clean up of a crime scene and, for victims of domestic violence, the cost of temporary shelter. Through the services of a victim advocate, crime victims receive assistance in filing applications; locating victim service programs, support groups, or mental health counselors; and handling quality of life issues that arise after victimization.

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