NCJ Number
102557
Date Published
1986
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The criminal justice system recognizes the practical role of the victim in criminal proceedings, but fails to respond to victim attitudes, experiences, and needs.
Abstract
Studies of English victims of violent crime show that they are essential in the reporting and investigation of crimes. Victims also provide evidence in the courts. A prompt police response strongly influences victim satisfaction at the first contact with the police. However, victim satisfaction tends to decline as the investigation proceeds. Victims often do not receive the information they need. They may also feel that the police and prosecutors are not interested in them. Victims currently do not feel valued by the criminal justice system. They need to be considered important paricipants. They do not want decisionmaking power, but they do want information and help in exchange for the time and effort they contribute during a time of personal crisis. Criminal justice professionals need to consider victims as equal partners, treating them courteously and providing information and help. These measures might appear to involve more work, but they would probably result in more effective crime detection and more successful prosecutions. 12 references.