NCJ Number
198946
Journal
International Review of Victimology Volume: 9 Issue: 2 Dated: 2002 Pages: 149-174
Editor(s)
Susan Herman,
David Weisburd
Date Published
2002
Length
26 pages
Annotation
This article describes Jacksonville, Florida's one-stop Victim Services Center as a model program that functions successfully due to the integration of local law enforcement and other related local agencies.
Abstract
This study was based upon interviews, secondary documents, and data provided by the Jacksonville Victim Services Center. The authors provide a brief history of various experimental victim-witness programs in the United States since 1970 and the beginning of the Jacksonville program. The research design method used is described as a retrospective field study using several types of information including interviews with the Center staff, law enforcement agencies, and other victim-related agencies. This interview process is described as a semi-structured data collection instrument. Additionally, all documents and reports provided by the Center were examined with two provided for 1999 and 2001 being described in particular. Validity cross checks are described as the method for verification of accuracy and prevention of duplication of information. A background overview and description of the current services provided by different divisions of the Victim Services Center program are provided, such as, an intimate-violence-enhanced services team, elderly and disabled victims, after-hours program, on-scene crisis response team, and a sexual assault response center. Staffing, position requirements, and responsibilities are described. Tables provide information on, for example, types of services provided to victims, families, and significant others in 1999 and 2000; data on the different types of services provided to elderly and disabled victims; types of special victimization of Center clients; and demographic data on clients served in various programs. A source list of references is included.