NCJ Number
211724
Date Published
2005
Length
59 pages
Annotation
This annual report for Fiscal Year 2003-2004 recounts the accomplishments of the Victims’ Services Advisory Committee (VSAC), which is a part of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD).
Abstract
Established in 1996, the role of the VSAC is to advise the PCCD regarding the development of the Commission’s plan related to victims’ services and compensation and to advise on the development of programs and projects designed to aid victims of crimes in Pennsylvania. VSACs vision statement and a listing of its members are presented, followed by a description of the types of victim programs offered by the PCCD, including the Rights and Services Program and the Victims of Juvenile Offenders Program. The rights of crime victims in Pennsylvania are presented and the types of State and Federal funds that Pennsylvania Counties receive for victims’ services are identified. Financial assistance is offered to crime victims through the Victims Compensation Assistance Program and advocacy services are offered to victims through the Direct Victim Services Unit (DVSU), which provides a range of services in person, over the telephone, or via the Internet and/or mail. The various eligibility requirements and the different types of victim benefits are described and include funeral expenses, child care, travel expenses, medical expenses, and counseling. A summary of the claims process is offered, followed by a description of the education and outreach services of the Office of Victims’ Services. Finally, statistical data are presented describing funding and compensation paid to victims during fiscal year 2003-2004. Figures, tables