Victims of crime get our support
Americans will observe National Crime Victims' Rights Week through Saturday. The observation, which will include events in Kern County, is dedicated this year to the memory of former President Ronald W. Reagan, who pioneered and promoted victims' rights through public policy and program initiatives.
The U.S. Department of Justice reports that in 2003, U.S. residents age 12 or older experienced an estimated 24.2 million violent and property crimes.
The Kern County Probation Department has operated a Victim/Witness Assistance Center for over 25 years. The Center is the only component of the criminal justice system with a primary focus on victim services. Probation staff have helped thousands of Kern County citizens who have been impacted by violent crimes, such as rape/sexual assault, simple assault; or property crimes, including household burglary, motor vehicle theft and theft.
Specially trained probation officers respond to crisis calls and treat victims with care and dignity. They assist survivors and witnesses of violent crimes by educating them about their rights, linking them to resources for food, clothing, lodging and counseling. They help victims navigate through the criminal justice system.
For the last quarter of 2004, the Kern County Victim/Witness Assistance Center provided 2,891 services to a monthly average of 422 victims. Through the local center, located at 1415 Truxtun Ave. (telephone 868-4535) victims of crime and their families may apply for state reimbursement for expenses resulting from a violent crime.
Some examples of out-of-pocket expenses that may be eligible for compensation are costs associated with medical or dental work, counseling, wage or income loss, funeral expenses, home security improvements, and moving or relocation expenses. Victims may also receive help obtaining court-ordered restitution from convicted offenders through the Probation Department.
The Crime Victims Fund was created in 1984 under the auspices of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) from federal fines, forfeitures, penalties and special assessments collected from criminal offenders. Local interventions on behalf of victims and witnesses are not supported by tax dollars.
The Victim/Witness Assistance Center works closely with law enforcement agencies, the district attorney and community-based agencies, such as the Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, Women's Center High Desert Inc. in Ridgecrest and Greater Bakersfield Legal Assistance.
Domestic violence generates nearly half the calls received by law enforcement. It has a clear impact on the quality and stability of families. The California Department of Justice documents that domestic violence call rates in Kern County in 2003 are 22 percent higher than the 1998 rate.
A Probation Specialized Unit (PSU) operating in metropolitan Bakersfield and east Kern actively supervises probationers who have felony convictions of crimes against women: sexual assault, domestic violence, and/or stalking. PSU officers make weekly contacts with the victims of their probationers. This is a key element of the program because it establishes a trust relationship, making it easier for the victim to get in touch with the officer to provide an early intervention for any subsequent domestic violence.
The upcoming celebration of National Crime Victims' Rights Week underscores the Kern County Probation Department's efforts to respond compassionately and effectively to the needs of local victims and witnesses. On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors will issue a proclamation acknowledging National Crime Victims' Rights Week.
An awards presentation recognizing outstanding service to crime victims will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday in front of the Courts and Administration Building, 1415 Truxtun Ave. Crime victims will provide firsthand accounts of their experiences, and other speakers will address the many resources available to victims.
On Thursday, from 7 to 8 p.m., a candlelight ceremony will memorialize crime victims in front of the Liberty Bell on Truxtun Avenue. The public is welcome to attend and participate. For information please call 868-4535.
John Roberts is Kern County's chief probation officer.
