CITY OF OVERLAND PARK - POSITION DESCRIPTION

This position works closely with the Police Department's Investigations Division to respond to victims' needs by applying a kind-hearted approach. They provide crisis stabilization and support services to crime victims, witnesses, survivors, and co-victims and assist with identified victimization concerns. They assess the psychosocial status of persons served, determine the types of referrals and services indicated, and coordinate the provisions of those referrals and services. Serves as a liaison with criminal justice professionals and community agency representatives to address the rights of and access to processes and services for crime victims, witnesses, survivors, and co-victims.

Initiates contact with victims of violent crime (primary), domestic violence, and other serious crimes.

Assists victims as they stabilize their lives after victimization.

Assist victims to understand and more effectively participate in the criminal justice system and be informed of their rights as a victim of crime and how to exercise those rights.

Responds to requests for assistance in cases involving death to offer support to the family of the deceased.

Provides support, education, assistance, and information to victims pertaining to the Criminal Justice System.

Provides community resource referrals, emergency shelter assistance, assists with the completion of Victim Compensation applications and Civil Protection Orders, and addresses other immediate needs.

Provides follow-up contact with crime victims to ensure all needs have been met, including: answering any questions related to the Criminal Justice System, identifying their rights as crime victims, and identifying resources available to them.

Understands, upholds, and assists in educating and exercising victims' rights per statutory and constitutional laws.

Assists the Victim Specialist LE with training to the Police Department on The Victim's Rights Act and any changes that may occur.

Maintains statistical records. Records case file information and appropriate documentation in the identified system.

Serves as liaison with advocacy groups, clinical and other service providers, community outreach services, and law enforcement personnel.

Engages and participates in community outreach and awareness activities.

Works the days and hours necessary to perform all assigned responsibilities and tasks. Is available (during and after normal business hours) to communicate with victims, supervisors, and any other persons or organization with whom interaction is required to accomplish work and employer goals.

Is punctual and timely in meeting all requirements of performance, including, but not limited to, attendance standards and work deadlines, beginning and ending assignments on time, and scheduled work breaks, where applicable.

GENERAL QUALIFICATIONS

Required: Bachelor's degree in the following field(s) of study: Crime Victim Advocacy, Criminal Justice Administration, Criminology, Social or Behavioral Sciences, Counseling, Psychology, Social Work or other related fields.

Access to the Kansas Criminal Justice Information System (KCJIS) is required, so the following KCJIS requirements apply:

Must be at least 18 years of age.

Must have not been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanor.

Must possess an appropriate, valid driver's license.

Must maintain an insurable driving record.

Must successfully pass a polygraph exam and police background check prior to employment.

EXPERIENCE:

No experience is required, but previous experience in Victim Services, Victim Advocacy, or Criminal Justice is preferred.

SKILLS:

Good oral and written communication skills.

Analytical skills, including research skills, ability to interpret data, ability to conceptualize, analyze information, and write formal recommendations based on findings.

Good attention to detail.

Computer software - database creation/maintenance skills, presentation skills, and spreadsheet skills.

Human relations/interpersonal skills.

Public speaking/presentation skills.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to meet deadlines.

Ability to exercise diplomacy and sound judgment.