NCJ Number
160853
Date Published
Unknown
Length
20 pages
Annotation
The role of the victim witness coordinator in identifying and providing appropriate services to innocent victims and witnesses in gang cases in California is outlined.
Abstract
The coordinator serves as a consultant to the prosecutor, case agent, probation officer, and others; provides direct and indirect services to victims and witnesses; serves an an expert on the services available for victims and witnesses; proposes new or unusual services; maintains a resource library on issues affecting victims of gang violence; assists the community through an outreach program or task force; and trains others. Services to victims and witnesses include providing information on victim services and compensation, notifying victims of the right to file a victim impact statement and seek restitution, and developing office procedures that make it easier for the witness to appear in court. Methods for identifying innocent victims and witnesses in gang cases include reviewing indictments, reading press releases, reviewing judgment and commitment orders, developing a referral system, developing a prosecutor/coordinator team, and regularly meeting with prosecutors. Coordinators should also address two special components of gang cases: fear of victimization and fear of retaliation.