NCJ Number
140256
Date Published
1988
Length
61 pages
Annotation
This report provides an evaluation of current services provided to victims and witnesses of crime, and makes recommendations to improve these services.
Abstract
A study undertaken by the Crime Commission included the following topics: (1) crime victim compensation; (2) funding of victim-witness services; (3) victim input into the sentencing process; (4) victim input into the parole process; (5) confidentiality of designated victim counseling; and (6) feasibility of a Bill of Rights for victims. The primary emphasis of the study was on legislative initiatives. However, administrative and other actions to improve services for treatment were included in the report. The study finds that crime victim compensation funds are inadequate to meet demands and recommends that DUI offenders be assessed a fee to improve the financial status of the program. The commission also concludes that additional victim assistance services are essential to assure victims of support and guidance in criminal justice proceedings and to alleviate burdens on state attorneys and law enforcement agencies. Additional time would be needed to examine more thoroughly the issues of victim impact statements, counselor confidentiality, and a crime victims' Bill of Rights. 9 appendices, 1 chart, 4 tables