NCJ Number
107043
Date Published
1983
Length
221 pages
Annotation
To identify victim services needs and currently available services in the Yukon (Canada) interviews were conducted in 1982 with 130 crime victims, 30 justice system personnel, 47 organizational representatives, and 38 community leaders.
Abstract
There was a four to one ratio of property crime to personal assault victims, and most property losses were under $500. Of victims, 90.6 percent were satisfied with the initial help received from police. More negative comments were made about the courts, but these related more to the preceived lack of enforcement and deterrent effects of sentences than to the courts per se. Attitudes of professionals and community leaders toward the criminal justice system were somewhat less favorable. Current victim services include small claims and civil courts, victim compensation/restitution, and community services. The most frequently identified service need for information at all levels (e.g., on reporting, from police, about court outcomes, and as victim/ witness). Counseling was also frequently cited, especially for sexual assault and child abuse victims. Thirty-two recommendations for improving victim services are presented. Appendixes include survey instruments and a listing of agencies and organizations providing victim services. 69 references.