NCJ Number
107008
Date Published
1987
Length
175 pages
Annotation
To evaluate implementation of recommendations for a victim assistance program on Prince Edward Island, Canada, particularly those pertaining to wife assault, interviews were conducted with 59 wife assault victims, 46 police officers, and 15 sexual assault victims in 1986-1987.
Abstract
A consultation also was held with senior justice personnel. Results indicate that wife assault victims are less hesitant to discuss the incident with others, to call police, and to seek shelter outside the home than were those in a 1983 study. Police more frequently removed the assailant from the home and more frequently charged the offender. However, for the majority of victims, adequate legal aid was not provided; only 22 percent of assailants were referred for treatment. Results of the sexual assault victim survey indicate that the emotional effects of the incident were severe and lasting, charges were laid in only 6 of 11 cases in which a suspect was identified, and the court process was very stressful for victims. The majority of victims were satisfied with medical, crisis intervention, and police services. Recommendations for further improving victim services are provided. Research instruments are appended. 8 references and 9 tables.