NCJ Number
101771
Date Published
1985
Length
84 pages
Annotation
This annual report for 1985 covers the history, objectives, accomplishments, and impact of the California Victim/Witness Assistance Program in the 43 counties currently receiving program funds.
Abstract
The program provides funds, training, and technical assistance to Victim/Witness Assistance Centers. Special emphasis is placed on improving citizen attitudes toward the criminal justice system and on providing comprehensive services to reduce trauma and speed recovery of victims and witnesses suffering from the effects of all types of crimes. Services include crisis intervention, referral and followup counseling, indemnification claims assistance, criminal justice system orientation and court support, professional training, and public education. Optional services may include employer intervention, child care, transportation, and provision of crime prevention information. The number of such services provided during fiscal year 1984-85 was 1,507,368, an increase of 1,259,494 over the previous year. In addition to meeting goals mandated by its authorizing legislation, the program has resulted in implementation of a number of innovative services and has provided a model for victim/witness centers in other States. Appendixes reproduce relevant State victim-witness legislation and a list of centers and their funding levels.