NCJ Number
127504
Date Published
1990
Length
76 pages
Annotation
This report presents the findings of a 2-year study of 850 victims of property and violent crime conducted by the Office of Crime Statistics in South Australia. It focuses on the attitudes and experiences of victims regarding their treatment and role in the criminal justice system.
Abstract
The structure of the study consisted of interviews with the victims at different stages of progression of the criminal justice system, particularly the initial police investigation, the 6-to 20-month aftermath, and the outcome. A separate questionnaire was designed for the subgroup of victims who would be required to appear in court as witnesses. Overall satisfaction and longterm effects of the crime are then covered. Issues in sentencing practices are discussed as well as victims' views on victim impact statements, their degree of involvement in the justice system, and the type of services needed. The overall findings of this study show that the program of victim reform of South Australia is being properly implemented in accordance with the declaration of victims rights. Recommendations deal with improvement in provision of information about victims' cases and their progression to the victims. 29 tables, 8 figures, 10 notes, and 72 references