The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce it has received federal funding from the U.S. Department of Justice to establish a law enforcement-based Victim Specialist Program.
This new program will provide victims with an HCSO point of contact that is dedicated to assisting them with resources. Once hired, specialists will serve as a liaison between deputies and the victims. They will respond to crime scenes to support victims with information about their rights and connecting them with any services after a crime occurs, which include crisis intervention assistance, short-term child or eldercare services and temporary housing.
“This grant allows our agency to provide victims with comprehensive services to victims who are in need during a difficult time,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “The newly created Victim Specialist Program falls right in line with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office mission to serve, protect and defend all those here in the county. While our specialists will be there to provide assistance at the scenes of crimes, the program will also connect victims with community partners and other organizations to get them the help they need and deserve.”
The Victim Specialist Program is expected to launch next fall and will be managed inside of HCSO’s Criminal Investigations Division.
