Victim Services

Victim's Rights

As a crime victim:

• To be informed, present and heard, when relevant, at all crucial stages of the criminal proceedings;
• If incarcerated, the right to be informed and submit written statements at all crucial stages of the proceedings and parole hearings;
• The right to a prompt and timely disposition of the case;
• To seek protection from intimidation and harm;
• To prepare and submit a victim impact statement to the court that will explain how the crime has affected you and/or your family;
• To request and receive restitution from the offender;
• The right to be informed about the availability of victim compensation;
• The right to have your property returned as quickly as possible;
• To review portions of the pre-sentence investigation report completed prior to the sentencing hearing by contacting the State Attorney or the court;
• The victim of a crime and the State Attorney, with the consent of the victim, have standing to assert the rights of a crime victim which are provided by law or s. 16(b), Art. 1 of the State Constitution;
• To have an advocate assist you in explaining to your employer and creditors about time lost from work, and financial, physical or emotional strain you have incurred as a direct result of the crime;
• The right to be consulted by the State Attorney's Office in felony cases involving physical or emotional injury or trauma, or in cases in which the victim is a minor child or in a homicide, the guardian or family of the victim will be consulted;
• The right to have an advocate with you during deposition;
• The right to be provided assistance with transportation, parking, separate waiting areas and translator services while attending court; and
• The right to be notified of scheduling changes.

Victim Services
 

The Victim Assistance Program began in 2005 through a grant from the Florida Attorney General's Office, Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). The program is run by one full-time State Certified Victim Advocate and Advocate Volunteers.

Edgewater Police Department's Victim Assistance Program was formed to assist with the needs of our citizens who become victims of crime and/or to survivors of those who have lost their lives due to a violent act. In addition to this, members of the Victim Assistance Program also provide aid to those affected by natural disasters, accidents and social issues.

The Advocates are on call 24 hours a day-7 days a week and respond where Police/Emergency personnel deem they are needed.

Specific services provided by the Victim's Advocate Program include:

Assistance completing necessary forms for injunctions, victim impact statements, crime compensation forms
Provide emotional and personal support during medical, judicial or law enforcement procedures
Referral network for various forms of counseling and/or emergency needs assistance such as food, clothing, shelter, transportation, etc.

Important information for victims of crime
 

Florida Crimes Compensation: If you are the victim of a crime, you may be eligible for Crimes Compensation. The Florida Crimes Compensation Act, Florida Statutes Chapter 960, provides compensation for financial expenses, medical expenses, professional counseling and loss of wages when eligible. Crimes Compensation does not cover property loss. For information, please contact: Bureau of Crimes Compensation at (850)488-0848 or the Edgewater Victim Advocate Office at (386)424-2400, option 1, extension 2156.