Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney: Arlington County, VA

The Arlington Victim/Witness Program is part of the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney and is supported by funding through Arlington County and a grant administered by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. The goals of the Program include assisting victims in stabilizing their lives; participating fully in the criminal justice system; addressing their needs; and receiving appropriate information and referrals. Localities served are Arlington County, Washington Metro Airport, and the City of Falls Church (felony crime victims only).

STAFFING

Prior to 1999, the Arlington Victim/Witness Program was staffed with two full-time employees; services to a limited number of victims were provided beginning in the early 1980’s. A growing awareness of victims’ needs and the passage of victims’ rights legislation led the Commonwealth’s Attorney to gradually expand the Victim/Witness Program. Through grant funding, one Victim Specialist and the Administrative Assistant positions were added in 1999. In 2000, the Program gained the position of Director, and in 2001, an additional full-time Victim Specialist (Spanish-speaking) was funded. Finally, in 2002, one additional position was transferred within the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, that of the Program Assistant. The staff of the Arlington Victim/Witness Program now consists of seven full-time personnel, including Director Karin U. Y. Geurtsen.

NEEDS OF CRIME VICTIMS

Needs of crime victims vary depending upon the individual, the crime, and the particular point reached in the criminal justice and recovery processes. One of the most fundamental needs of all victims is the need for information. Beyond this, most victims of crime require support to enable cooperation with the justice process and recovery from the trauma of crime. The Arlington Victim/Witness Program is committed to facilitating the treatment of victims with fairness, dignity and respect as specified in the Virginia Bill of Rights.

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

Emergency Cell Phone Program

Cellular phones donated by private citizens and local businesses are distributed to victims of crime, primarily the elderly and victims of domestic violence and stalking. These phones can be used to call 911 in the event of an emergency.

Senior Citizens

Volunteers are trained to work with senior citizens who have been victimized by crime, and work closely with Program staff to provide appropriate services. A volunteer may visit seniors at home in order to explain victims’ rights and the criminal justice process. Referrals are made to other agencies working with seniors; crime prevention and personal safety are emphasized.