Victim Services Coordinator
Under the general supervision of the Lieutenant overseeing Investigations, the Victim Services Coordinator manages and coordinates all aspects of the Victim Services Program. This position serves as a key advocate for victims of crime, providing crisis response, ongoing support, and access to essential resources. The coordinator works closely with law enforcement, prosecutors, and community partners to ensure victims are informed of their rights and receive comprehensive assistance throughout the investigative and judicial process. The position operates with significant independence and requires sound judgment, discretion, and empathy. Work environments vary and may include offices, courtrooms, crime scenes, hospitals, shelters, and victims homes. This position participates in an on-call rotation to ensure 24/7 victim support.
Key Responsibilities: The Victim Services Coordinator plays a vital role in supporting victims and enhancing the community’s response to trauma and crisis. Responsibilities include:
- Responds to critical incidents including overdoses, suicides, homicides, and other traumatic events to provide immediate crisis support and intervention.
- Serves as a liaison between victims and the prosecuting attorneys office; explains judicial procedures and testifies in court when required.
- Advises victims of their constitutional rights, supports them through legal processes including Civil Protection Orders (CPORs), and provides consistent follow-up and communication.
- Refers victims to emergency housing, counseling, substance use treatment, and other social service resources.
- Maintains current knowledge of opioid treatment resources and connects victims to appropriate care providers.
- Develops and delivers public education and outreach efforts on drug disposal, overdose response, and naloxone use.
- Engages and coordinates with community-based organizations and faith-based groups to strengthen prevention and support efforts.
- Provides training to law enforcement and community stakeholders on trauma-informed practices and victim-related issues.
- Maintains accurate and confidential digital records and participates in the departments on-call response rotation.
- Collaborates with officers, detectives, prosecutors, and community agencies to ensure continuity of care and effective case management.
- Participates in outreach events and public awareness campaigns related to victim services and substance abuse prevention.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications: This position requires a professional who demonstrates compassion, initiative, and the ability to navigate complex and sensitive situations. Ideal qualifications include:
- Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field preferred.
- Two (2) years of experience in victim advocacy, social services, or a related field.
- Knowledge of Idaho victims rights, court procedures, crisis intervention techniques, and trauma-informed care.
- Familiarity with substance abuse recovery systems and regional opioid treatment programs.
- Ability to remain calm and professional during crises, provide empathetic support, and exercise sound judgment under pressure.
- Skilled in building relationships with victims, law enforcement, legal professionals, and community organizations.
- Proficient in verbal and written communication, including clear documentation and public speaking.
- Capable of maintaining confidentiality, setting professional boundaries, and handling sensitive information responsibly.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to work independently.
- Must be able to work flexible hours and participate in an on-call rotation, including nights and weekends.
- Valid drivers license and the ability to travel locally for response and outreach activities.