Philosophy

BCS's philosophy rests on the belief that creating a dialogue between law enforcement agencies and victims of crime leads to further strengthening and creating a partnership to increase trust in law enforcement. This belief comes, in part, from the hands-on-experience of BCS Victim Coordinators and research that supports this philosophy.

Studies have shown when victims believe they are treated appropriately by law enforcement are more willing to come forward with information that helps solve crimes. These victims often act as informal advocates in their communities, based upon their positive interaction, encouraging others to come forward or seek out services from their local law enforcement agency.

 In October 2015, the ACLU released the results of a nationwide survey amongst advocates, service providers, attorneys, and people working in membership-based organizations regarding policing and domestic violence and sexual assault.[1] That nationwide survey was conducted over one month, from April and May 2015, to which more than 900 people responded. From the responses of those surveyed, several themes were reflected. Recommended changes included, but were not limited to, changes in police culture, policy, and practice that are more victim-centered, preferring that law enforcement agencies do more to inform survivors about the criminal process and available services. More importantly, research revealed that of those surveyed, most wanted law enforcement agencies to develop closer partnerships with advocates, to improve their knowledge of community resources for survivors, to understand survivors better, and to improve law enforcement response.

BCS stands with law enforcement agencies to develop and implement Victim Coordinator programs focusing on support, consideration, and genuine compassion towards the experience of victims of crime.

In the April 4th, 2018, article "What Does the Data Tell Us About Law Enforcement–Based Victim Services," in Police Chief Online, author Heather Warnken cites several studies performed by the Bureau of Justice which shed light on law enforcement's current efforts in victim services. In this article, Warnken explains that one Bureau of Justice Study determines that "there are significant gaps in law enforcement resources for and responses to victims." The article goes on to explain to best serve victims of crime, there is not only a necessity for well-trained officers but that a "victim response capacity may be enhanced by dedicated non-sworn staff working hand-in-hand with officers". And that "Civilian staff can respond to the needs of victims in ways that sworn staff may be unable to, and the existence of such personnel may facilitate deeper aspects of an agency culture shift toward a victim-centered approach."[2] 

BCS Victim Coordinators can meet the need to bridge the partnership gap for law enforcement agencies by addressing victims' issues and concerns directly with the law enforcement agency and the prosecutor, offering victims information about their criminal cases and different resource options available to them. BCS Victim Coordinators understand the importance of providing support to victims of crime, recognizing the victims' decision-making, being respectful of their choices, all the while sharing their safety concerns and the concerns of law enforcement. BCS Victim Coordinators encourage victims to be a part of the process and share their perspectives on what has led to law enforcement intervention and what can help their family in such a difficult time. BCS Victim Coordinators are committed to maintaining the highest possible levels of professionalism and compassion in their interactions with victims, law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors alike. 

[1][1] “Responses from the Field Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, and Policing” 2015 Survey results, www.aclu.org/responsesfromthefield

[2][2]Heather Warnken, “What Does the Data Tell Us About Law Enforcement–Based Victim Services,” Police Chief Online, April 4, 2018. https://www.policechiefmagazine.org/what-does-the-data-tell-us/?ref=027a5b5c65a682aa4d49e614f02006d3