NCJ Number
203086
Date Published
2003
Length
50 pages
Annotation
This report illustrates the work performed by the Victim Services and Victim Compensation Programs on behalf of victims and their families under the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, Victims’ Services Advisory Committee from July 2001 to July 2002.
Abstract
In 1995, the Victims’ Services Advisory Committee (VSAC) was created to strengthen Pennsylvania’s support of crime victims. The VSAC serves in an advisory capacity to the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to assist in the development of victims’ services and compensation. This annual report illustrates the accomplishments of VSAC, its committees, and the Office of Victims’ Services from July 1, 2001, to June 30, 2002. Accomplishment highlights focus on four areas: the reactions of the PCCD to the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the United States, technology advancements, legislation, and direct victim services unit (DVSU). Following the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, staff members of the PCCD provided assistance and support through crisis intervention and counseling services to families who lost loved ones aboard United Airlines Flight 93. Technology enhancements included a new Web-based application, named DAVE which enables victim service providers to file compensation claims electronically, and guides advocates through an interview process to determine eligibility, as well as the documentation needed to expedite the processing of clients’ claims. As a result of recent amendments to the Crime Victims Act, victims of crime will be benefiting from expanded compensation eligibility requirements and added services. Finally, the Victims Compensation Program’s Direct Victim Services Unit (DVSU) expanded its services to victims/claimants in March 2002. Tables