NCJ Number
78382
Date Published
1981
Length
170 pages
Annotation
This report examines Hawaii's victim/witness assistance programs and offers recommendations and statutes for consideration by the legislature.
Abstract
The existing victim/witness network of services was examined through interviews with victims, witnesses, and professionals in the field; a review of relevant literature; and public hearings. Problems encountered by victims and witnesses in their interaction with the criminal justice system were found to range from not being able to find a babysitter during court appearances to having to pay large medical bills and suffer loss of wages because of injuries sustained from victimization. Findings indicate that a wide range of services are currently being provided to victims and witnesses, ranging from direct cash payments made to victims of violent crimes to emotional support provided by a voluntary organization of women helping women. Maui County is the only county without a victim/witness assistance program. The report recommends that (1) the operating budget of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Commission be increased to allow for an additional staff person, (2) the Criminal Injuries Compensation Commission be authorized to establish a revolving fund to expedite monetary compensation to victims whose cases have been favorably closed by the compensation commission, and (3) a bill of rights for crime victims, a law guaranteeing a witness job and pay if he/she is subpoenaed to testify in court, and a law limiting commercial exploitation of sensational crimes be enacted. The report also summarizes statistical data analyses performed on information obtained from personal interviews, public forums, and public hearings conducted to elicit background information, facts, and opinions from crime victims. A bibliography contains 15 listings. (Author abstract modified)