VICTIMS' VOICES,

                  SILENT

                          NO MORE!

The Bartow Police Department in its effort to correct the injustices that have been perpetrated against crime victims, has established a Victim Assistance Program. Victim Advocates recognize and are most sensitive to the rights and needs of crime victims. Victims face many difficult problems that are caused by their victimization. The Victim Advocate responds to these individual needs with compassion and an in-depth knowledge of available community resources.

The Victim Advocate may

-- provide crisis intervention.               

 

-- provide emotional support.

 

-- help you to understand how the judicial system works.

 

-- assist you in obtaining information about your case.

 

-- help you deal with the aftermath of crime.

 

-- assist you in filing for Victim Compensation.

 

-- make appropriate referrals.

 

To be advised of your rights.

 

To be told about Victim Compensation and other services available to you.

 

To be advised of the stages of your case in the Criminal Justice system, and your role in it.

 

To be informed, present, and heard when relevant at crucial stages of the criminal justice proceeding. (And if incarcerated, the right to present written statements.)

 

To be advised of protection available to you as a victim or witness.

 

To be notified of scheduling changes in criminal proceedings.

 

To request and receive restitution from the offender.

 

To have evidentiary property returned as soon as possible.

 

To be assisted with employer and creditor and intercession when you so request.

 

Other services such as transportation to Court, translator services, etc., as is necessary and practicable.