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| The
Santa Cruz County Attorney's Office Victims Services Program |
In 1990, the people of Arizona voted to amend our state constitution
to give rights to victims of crime. If you become a victim of a crime
or you witness one, you will probably be upset, nervous and worried.
You may also be confused by the legal system.
The Santa Cruz County Attorney's Office now coordinates several programs
to provide assistance to victims and witnesses. We want to help you
better understand how your role as a witness is a vital part of seeking
justice.
The Santa Cruz County Attorney's Victim Services Program began operating
in 1985. The program is designed to assure that victims and witnesses
of crime are treated with dignity and respect. Being victimized can
be overwhelming, frightening and confusing. Our staff and volunteers
are here to provide information, support and assistance to victims
and witnesses of crime. The Victim Services Program provides
two types of services:
· Criminal justice system support
· Victim compensation information and assistance |
Witness Services
This service is available to assist victims and witnesses through
the criminal justice system. Services include:
· Case status information
· Information about victim rights and responsibilities
· Criminal justice system advocacy
· Written information on the criminal justice system process and
hearings
· Referrals to community agencies |
Victim Compensation
Victim compensation began in Arizona to relieve victims of some of
the financial stress they experience when victimized. The State of
Arizona collects fines from convicted felons to fund Victim Compensation.
In Santa Cruz County, a Board comprised of five local volunteers reviews
claims and disburses funds to eligible victims. Information about
Victim Compensation and assistance with completing claim forms are
available through the Victim Services Program. Only victims of personal
or violent crimes are eligible to receive these funds.
Compensable crimes include:
· Sexual assault
· Child molestation
· Homicide
· Aggravated assault
· Armed robbery
Compensable losses include:
· Medical/Dental expenses
· Counseling expenses
· Funeral costs
· Loss of wages |
Volunteers
Volunteers are crucial, and without them many services could not be
provided. In order for the program to be successful, volunteer advocates
are needed. Volunteers are extensively trained in communication skills,
community resources, vicitimology, and dealing with people in crises.
Volunteer are needed to provide: 1. Crisis intervention counseling;
2. Court related services (education, escort, support); and 3. Office
work and research
Referrals
Referrals to the Santa Cruz County Attorney's Victim Services Program
may originate from victims, law enforcement officers, prosecuting
attorneys, judges and social service agencies. We encourage victims
or other community members to call for information about the program.
All services are free of charge.
The Santa Cruz County Attorney's Office Victim Services Program,
2585 N. Grand Ave., Suite 2, Nogales, AZ 85621, phone number is (520)
281-5868.
LINKS
Bad Check Program Guide Book
Auctions
Legal Arizona Workers Act
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