Victim Support Services
Victim Support Services is a team of dedicated professionals who supports persons affected by heinous crimes which according to the legal definition, is punishable by imprisonment of six years or more or a serious traffic accident. Assistance is also offered to indirect victims: family members, those involved (during an abuse, fight or robbery) and relative parties, in accordance with Article 206 paragraph 1 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. Victims of (natural) disasters, minor traffic accidents and political abuse do not fall under the target group of the Victim Support Services.
Often, when a crime is committed the focus is solely on apprehending (prosecuting) the perpetrator and no one focuses on the well-being of the victim. With the establishment of the Victim Support Services this will remove the missing element within the Justice system.
The Victim Support Services are assisted and supported by various judicial institutions namely: The Ministry of Justice, the Police Force of Sint Maarten, The Public Prosecutor office & SJIB and will be available 24/7.
Often, when a crime is committed the focus is solely on apprehending (prosecuting) the perpetrator and no one focuses on the well-being of the victim. With the establishment of the Victim Support Services this will remove the missing element within the Justice system.
Purpose of the Victim Support Services
Provide shelter after a crime has taken place.
Accompany victims during criminal proceedings, whereby the Victim Support Service can be called upon for assistance with.
Representing the interests of the victim: contacting the insurance, making appointments on behalf of the victim with authorities such as the police station, psychologist or informing the KPSM / the Public Prosecutor on behalf of the victim.
Providing information, e.g. writing letters, making phone calls, mediation, contacting the victim’s employer or school, etc.
Training victims to make them resilient to violence and to teach them how to deal with the consequences of violence. (In case of domestic violence). Also training to offenders. (e.g. in the field of traffic and violent crime).
Checking and identifying whether the victim is recovering and, where necessary, suggesting opportunities for improvement. A mutual evaluation takes place upon completion of the contact with the victim.
Provide counseling (phyco-social) and emotional support to victims as soon as possible after a crime/ serious traffic accident has been committed or taken place.
To giving advice.
Obtaining compensation for damages via KPSM or the Public Prosecutor as well as joining the criminal proceedings as an injured party and completing the damage (compensation) forms.
Mediating the conflict between the perpetrator and the victim.
Referral to supportive private and public services, including specialist help (e.g. by a psychologist).
Setting up community awareness campaigns