SJSO Victims’ Advocacy

Being the victim of a crime is not pleasant to think about. In fact, it is not pleasant to have to go through, but unfortunately it occurs. Victims of crime are sometimes young, sometimes old, sometimes poor, but all victims sustain some type of physical, emotional, or financial injury. All too often, this injury is long-lasting. 

We at the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office are particularly concerned, and we are committed to insuring the rights of victims. I have established a Victim/Witness Program. Our goal is to meet the needs of victims of crime, and reduce the trauma they have experienced. We want to help!

Sincerely,
David Shoar, Sheriff

Your Rights as a Victim or Witness:
We realize that for many persons, being a victim or witness to a crime is their first experience with the criminal and juvenile justice system. As a victim or witness, you have certain rights within the system. For further information regarding these rights please contact the appropriate law enforcement agency handling your case.

Who is Eligible?
Victims of crime always need the support of their families and friends to help them deal with the trauma of victimization. Sometimes this support is not sufficient, or additional help or information is needed. Victim and Witness assistance is available to any citizen of St. Johns County, or any victim or witness of a violent crime committed within the county.

The Basic Victims’ Bill Of Rights under Florida Statute 960 are:
As a victim of a crime you have the following rights or remedies under Florida Statute 960:

1. In some cases, victims (or their relatives where the victim is deceased) may be eligible for financial compensation from the State of Florida. Information regarding eligibility may be obtained from the law enforcement agency or from the Bureau of Crimes Compensation, Office of the Attorney General 1-800-226-6667, or the State Attorney’s Office.

2. The right to receive information on available crisis intervention services and local community services to include counseling, shelter, legal assistance, or other types of help, depending on the particular circumstances.

3. The right to receive information regarding the role of the victim in the criminal or juvenile process, including what the victim may expect from the system as well as what the system may expect from the victim.

4. The right to be informed, present, and heard when relevant, at all crucial stages of a criminal or juvenile proceeding, to the extent the right does not interfere with the constitutional rights of the accused.

5. The right to request and receive restitution.

For additional information on FL Statute 960, please contact your local Victim/Witness Program. Because We Care!

Additional Resources:
Florida Attorney General - Crime Victims Services
Florida Corrections Commission - Frequently Asked Questions
National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA)

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