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Did you know that Halifax Regional Police has a team of people dedicated to supporting victims of crime? And that speaking to them doesn’t mean you have to file a police report? Our Victim Services Unit is made up of civilian staff and volunteers who work with victims of crime with a focus on victims of domestic and sexualized violence. They act as allies for victims, offering emotional support, providing information about investigations and setting up referrals to other agencies.
The Victim Services Unit was created in 1996 after the introduction of legislation from the Department of Justice in Nova Scotia, which has become known as the pro-arrest, pro-charge policy regarding domestic violence. This policy states that in the investigation of domestic violence, police officers must lay charges where there is reasonable evidence that an offence took place. It was also recommended by the Department of Justice that policing agencies provide assistance to the victims of domestic violence through the provision of victim services or victim assistance programs. Halifax Regional Police promptly began the development of such a program with the assistance of an advisory board comprised of a community representative and police members.
Like victims of crime, Victim Services staff and volunteers come from all walks of life, bringing with them a variety of interests, life experiences and expertise. Learn more about Victim Services at http://www.halifax.ca/police/programs/victimservices.php. Contact the Unit by calling 902-490-5300.