NCJ Number
213308
Date Published
March 2000
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This monograph reviews victim confidentiality issues particular to small American Indian communities.
Abstract
While issues of confidentiality are always important to victims, these issues are magnified when victims live in small communities. There are strict confidentiality policies governing all victim services work and in many cases, the confidentiality rights of victims have been codified in Federal, State, and tribal laws. In some cases, however, these laws and policies may not be enough to protect the confidentiality of victims living in small American Indian communities. The author notes the widespread use of police “scanners” in tribal communities, as well as the easily recognizable cars of neighbors in front of known social or victim services agencies. While protecting the confidentiality of victims under these circumstances is more difficult, it is not impossible and the author outlines many suggestions including the advice to locate victim services agencies in large facilities where other, unrelated services are offered. Social and victim services staff training is highlighted as key to safeguarding the confidentiality rights of victims. References, resources