Over the past 27 years, thousands of people have benefited from the victim services program run by the Mojave County Attorney’s Office. Her eight staff, supported by a small number of volunteers, provide a range of advocacy and support services to victims of all forms of criminal activity, from robbery to murder.
Defense attorneys often have long-term experience with victims, from crime initiation to court sentencing. For example, one advocate responded to the April 13 car crash that claimed the lives of two Kingman teenagers, offering comfort to many traumatized both at the scene and in the hospital.
Informing people of their constitutional rights as victims is fundamental to this program. Advocates help guide people through the maze of hearings in the criminal justice system, which is foreign and confusing to many.
Volunteer coordinator Tiffany Barker said much of the work involved emotional and informational support.
“We jump into a confusing situation. This is the worst day of their lives. An advocate is someone who stops in all the drama and says, ‘When it’s all over, I’m still you.’ “Our goal has always been to re-empower victims through local resources, counseling and court proceedings. The horrific events that have happened to them are like scars,” Barker said. When the scab falls off, it leaves a scar, and they will live with the scars of their crimes forever, but we are giving them the resources they need to understand and rebuild their lives. That’s what makes advocacy such a great job.”
Barker said the program could leverage volunteers in any county community.background checks and
Training is part of the process and times can be adjusted to best suit the volunteer.
“It’s a volunteer way to get involved in a meaningful community. People who have been through something and come back years later say, ‘You changed my life.’ They say,” Barker said. It’s true… the remnants of what we’ve done are felt throughout the victim’s life. ”
If you would like to volunteer or learn more about the program, please contact Barker by phone or email at 928-718-4967 or BarkeT@mohave.gov.
