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The Victim Services / Youth Crime Unit is
comprised of highly qualified and specialized investigators, who deal
with crimes involving domestic abuse or crimes in which the offender is
a young offender. In both of these types of crime, specific
knowledge of services available in the community, knowledge of the
psycho-social impact of crime, and expertise with elements of crime is
required.
Victim Services Officers investigate
domestic violence cases, level 1 assaults, and assist in investigations
of Missing Persons. Their involvement in these cases may include
follow-up investigations, charges, referrals to other agencies, or other
actions to aid the victim.
In addition to investigating domestic
violence, Victim Services Officers perform tasks that enable police and
other organizations to monitor domestic violence. Officers
complete monthly Spousal Assault forms for compilation of domestic
violence statistics, and provide background information for monthly
(domestic violence) crown interviews. Victim Services Officers
report to the Victim Services Coordinator, who oversees Victim Services
Officers in Districts of the Niagara Regional Police Service.
These officers also liaise with other police agencies, the Crown
Attorney's Office, Family and Children Services, and the public in
relation to family violence.
Youth Crime involves criminal activity
committed by young offenders, and requires officers to co-ordinate,
conduct investigations and monitor court cases and files in relation to
young offenders. Youth Crime Officers liaise with courts, Crown
Attorneys, Probation Officers, and other organizations that address the
needs and responsibilities of Young Offenders.
Youth Crime Officers participate with and
act as resource persons for community groups, youth organizations, and
other committees that address youth issues. They also prepare
in-service training material for platoon officers for young offender
status, legislation changes, or any other criteria to assist in dealing
with young offenders.
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