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The advocates of the Victim Assistance unit act as a liaison between law
enforcement, District Attorney’s Office, medical providers, employers, insurance
companies, and any other agencies to try and meet the needs of the victim.
Services are provided to victims of:
- Arson
- Burglary
- Child Abuse: Physical/Sexual
- Criminal Mischief
- Domestic Violence
- DWI: Injury/Fatal
- Elder Abuse
- Homicide
- Identify Theft
- Larceny
- Physical Assault
- Robbery
- Sexual Offenses
- Stalking
Program
Services:
Victim Compensation- The VAU will assist in filing claims with the New
York State Crime Victims Board (CVB). To be considered for CVB compensation, you
must be deemed the innocent victim of a crime. Victims may be eligible for:
-
Medical and Counseling expenses
- Loss of earnings
- Loss of essential personal
property (you must be injured during the crime, under 18, over 60 years old, or
disabled)
- Funeral expenses for Homicide, DWI or Hit and Run fatalities
- Crime
scene clean-up
- Occupational/ Vocational Rehabilitation
Criminal Justice
Support -
A Crime Victim Advocate will accompany the victim and/or family member
to interviews with law enforcement, meetings with the District Attorney’s
Office, and court proceedings. Advocates will provide transportation when
necessary. Emotional support and guidance will be rendered throughout the court
process.
24 Hour On Call Availability
Advocates are available for crisis
intervention through the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office dispatch. Advocates can
be utilized in situations such as homicides, sexual offenses, and domestic
violence incidents.
Referrals
The VAU offers referrals to local agencies who can
offer specific assistance such as food, clothing, shelter, and counseling.
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