NCJ Number
142954
Date Published
1992
Length
308 pages
Annotation
The Victim Service Program of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency is guided by a recent manual of standards and procedures for victim/witness assistance.
Abstract
The manual is divided into three main sections. The first section examines Pennsylvania's victim services program and criminal justice system, characteristics of specific victim populations, and community relations. The second section contains both minimum standards and model standards, and self-evaluation is suggested to indicate each program's level of compliance with the standards. Minimum standards that are not yet met should be prioritized, and efforts should be directed toward implementation. Programs meeting all minimum standards should strive for compliance with model standards. The third section contains a legislative directory and several resource lists. The manual specifically discusses the victim rights movement and the philosophy of victim/witness assistance programs. Consideration is given to the victimization of children and older adults, domestic violence, sexual assault, personal crimes, homicide, driving under the influence, threats and intimidation, child witnesses, special victim needs, and community outreach.