Each year, thousands of Georgians are affected by crime. These crimes impact individuals, families, communities and businesses.

People react to being a victim of crime in different ways depending on the extent or severity of the pain and loss. Being victimized often has an understanbly profound emotional and psychological effect. Know that you are valued and an important part of the administration of justice.

History

The Office of Victim Services was established in 2007 as a component of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice, Division of Community Services and Intake. Through its inception, the department has identified victim services as a key to building safe communities in Georgia; by providing a balance between victim rights, public safety and juvenile rehabilitation. The Office of Victim Services is responsible for affording victims of crime access to rights and services provided by Georgia law and departmental policies.

Mission

"The Office of Victim Services will deliver with compassion, a continuum of comprehensive services that promote victims' rights and supports statewide victim services programs through the delivery of timely, accurate and informative services; while promoting safer communities for citizens of Georgia."

Services to Victims

Provide information regarding the criminal justice process and act as liaisons on behalf of the victim.

Notification: Inform victims via mail and/or phone when violent and designated felony offenders are released or escape from secure confinement centers.

Claims Compensation: As requested assist victims of crime complete the Crimes Compensation Application.

Restitution: Provide the victim with updated information regarding outstanding restitution and inform the victim that they have the option of filing a civil suit against the youth for the unpaid balance of restitution.

Advocacy: Provide supportive services for victims of prison rape (PREA) and Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC). Walk the victim through the legal process.

Referral: Recommended and provide information regarding community and/or departmental services available to the victim.

Education and Training: Inform the public and juvenile justice staff on how to minimize their risk of victimization and the availability of community programs for victims. Education can be achieved through collaborative partnerships with county juvenile courts, schools, child advocacy centers, departmental media outlets, and brochures.

Multi Agency Partnership

To further enhance services provided to crime victims, the Department of Juvenile Justice has joined 10 other state agencies to form the Multi-Agency Victim Services Partnership, which works to restore dignity, safety and well-being to crime victims by providing leadership, guidance and information to victims and their families.

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You can reach the Department of Juvenile Justice, Office of Victim Services by calling toll free 1-866-922-6360 or email