Volunteer Victim Advocates

Volunteer Victim Advocates

In 1996, Sheriff Kern recognized a need for volunteers to assist his

deputies at the scene of a crime or serious accident. The Tuscola County

Victim-Witness program was formed and volunteers were trained and the

program sanctioned by the Michigan Sheriff’s Association.

The program currently has a full-time coordinator and 14 volunteer Victim

Advocates meeting the needs of the citizens of Tuscola County who become

victims of crime. The volunteers also assist victims of disasters, accidents

and the survivors of suicide victims.

The Advocates are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to the

scene, hospital or police department. They provide crisis intervention, referrals, transportation and accompaniment to the hospital, court or domestic violence shelters. Advocates also assist in making death notifications.

The Advocate acts as a liaison between citizens and law enforcement, the

judicial system and social support services.

Specific services provided by the Tuscola County Volunteer Victim Advocates include:

• Notification of death or injury due to accidents, homicides, suicides and other incidents
• Emotional support during medical, criminal justice and law enforcement procedures
• Assistance at the scene of accidents, assaults and other traumatic situations.
• Aid in utilizing services agencies for assistance with emergency needs, such as food, clothing, shelter and transportation.
• Court orientation, support and advocacy through the judicial process until disposition of the case and beyond, if needed.
• Assistance in filling out paperwork for PPO’s , Victim impact statements and crime victims compensation.
• Personal advocacy, as needed.
• Participate in public awareness activities.