More Victims` Rights - Career and Technical Education
Transcription
More Victims` Rights - Career and Technical Education
More Victims’ Rights Course Law Enforcement II Unit VI Victims’ Rights Essential Question What are the procedures needed to gain public cooperation for victims of crime? TEKS §130.294(c) (6)(A)(B)(C) Prior Student Learning Victims’ Rights, Law Enforcement I Estimated Time 4 hours Rationale Students in law enforcement will encounter victims of crime and will need to be able to relay to victims the rights afforded to them under state and federal laws. This will enable them to better foster public cooperation. Objectives The student will be able to: 1. Identify and discuss elements of crisis intervention 2. Determine procedures for advising a crime victims of their legal recourses 3. Explain step-by-step court procedures for suspects, victims, and witnesses entering the system 4. Explain the procedures for providing appropriate assistance to individuals with disabilities such as autism and Alzheimer’s disease, and the hearing, visual, and mobility impaired Engage Do an Internet search for a video using the following key words: Victim Rights Every Victim. Every Time. Show the video and discuss with students the rights that they believe victims have and/or should have. Discuss how their perceptions differ from reality. Use the Discussion Rubric for assessment. Key Points I. Elements of Crisis Intervention A. Safety and Security 1. Physical safety of the victim a) Should be the first concern for anyone intervening in a crisis situation b) Until it is clear that a victim is not physically in danger or in need of emergency medical attention, other issues should be put aside c) Victims who are in physical shock may be unaware of the injuries they have already sustained or the dangers they still face 2. A victim’s concern for the safety of others – if a victim’s loved one is in danger, or if his or her loved one’s whereabouts are unknown, this will be the primary focus of the victim’s attention 3. A victim’s mental safety – the presence of law enforcement does not always guarantee that the victim feels safe. The victim may not feel safe in the following circumstances: a) The victim can see and hear the assailant being interviewed by law enforcement officers b) The victim is being interviewed in the same area where an attack took place 1 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 4. c) The victim is cold and physically uncomfortable d) The assailant has not been apprehended and has threatened to return e) Survivors of homicide (1) May not be able to focus on safety and instead seek a sense of security through the provision of privacy and nurturing (2) They will suffer feelings of helplessness and powerlessness (3) The shock of the arbitrary death of a loved one is usually not assimilated immediately and survivors may not understand the questions or the directives given to them f) Security is also promoted when the victims and the survivors are given opportunities to regain control of events. The following are some hints for helping victims and survivors do this: (1) Sit down to talk (2) Ask the victims/survivors where they feel the safest when you talk to them and then move to that location (3) Reassure the victims/survivors with the words “you are safe now” (4) If possible, ask if there is someone the victims/survivors would like to have with them in order to feel safer, and if that person can be contacted to be enroute (5) If possible, keep the media away from the victims/survivors or help the victims/survivors by responding to the media’s questions. Assure the victims/survivors that they do not have to answer questions from the media unless they want to, and under the circumstances of their own choosing (6) If the victims/survivors has loved ones about whom they are concerned, try to find out as much information as possible and address those concerns (7) Provide the victims/survivors with information that may help to assure their safety (8) If the victims/survivors are not safe, keep them informed about the extent of any additional threat (9) Give the victims/survivors permission to express any reactions, and respond to their reactions without judgment Respond to the need for nurturing, but do not become a “rescuer” on whom the victim becomes dependent. Remember the primary goal of crisis intervention is to help the victim restore control over his or her life a) Take care of practical things (1) Address those things that need to be done but are beyond the victim’s ability to accomplish 2 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. (2) If a victim is in acute crisis, he or she may be capable of doing very little for him or herself (3) You must gauge the victim’s capacity for responding to his or her environment b) Suggest specific things that you can do for the victim such as make phone calls, help with transportation, etc. (1) Be specific when making offers, so that the victim can simply respond with “yes” or “no” (2) Do not assume anything; ask permission before you take action c) Help the victim to reestablish control, first over small things and then over larger ones (1) Allow the victim to make decisions for himself or herself and to take an active role in the process (2) Ask the victim simple questions involving choices that can be easily made: “Where would you like to sit while we talk?” B. Ventilation and Validation 1. Ventilation a) Refers to the process of “telling his or her story” (1) Victims need to tell their story over and over to gain control of the events in their mind (2) Bits of memory will come back in dreams, intrusive thoughts, and simply during the storytelling process (3) The story may change over time b) A part of ventilation is the process of finding words or other ways that will give expression to his or her experiences and reactions (1) It is often culturally specific (2) The power of putting words to feelings and facts is tremendous. For instance, victims may feel intense anger towards an assailant and find that the word “anger” is insufficient to express that intensity. The person intervening may offer words such as “outrage” or “fury.” The victim can feel a sense of liberation after he or she has expressed himself or herself 2. Validation – the process through which the crisis intervener makes it clear that most reactions to horrific events are “normal” a) Validation should be content specific. Example: rather than saying “I can’t imagine how upset you are,” it is preferable to say, “I can’t imagine how upset you are about your son’s death in a car crash” b) Tell the victim that his or her reactions are not uncommon when someone has experienced a traumatic event c) Where possible, repetition of the actual phrases that the victim uses to describe the experience is useful. Reassure the victim 3 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. that although the crisis may have thrown his or her life into a chaotic state, they are not, as a consequence, crazy 3. Use active listening skills a) This is one of the most important things you can do in a crisis situation b) Allow some silence and some time for the victim to respond C. Prediction and Preparation 1. Victims have an incredible need for practical information. Some of the information may be unpleasant but necessary a) Will the victim have to relocate? What are his or her options? b) Does the victim have adequate financial resources to pay for any immediate needs caused by the crime? c) What legal issues confront the victim? Will the case be investigated, filed? Will the suspect be arrested? Will the suspect be released on bond? Victims must be provided with information about the following: (1) Procedures for the criminal investigation of his or her case (2) Procedures in the criminal justice system (3) Victims’ rights (4) Crime Victims’ Compensation (5) Referrals to social service agencies (6) Counseling regarding AIDS and HIV infection and testing d) The victim may be unable to concentrate on complex explanations of the process. Always leave written materials for the victim to refer to for later questions e) Remember that honest answers and estimates are essential. Let the victim know about the chances that a case will go to trial f) Never promise a victim any outcome in the system. Do not tell a victim that a suspect will be arrested. Suspects are not arrested 100% of the time. Do not assure a victim of a punishment the suspect may receive 2. The second priority is for information about possible or likely emotional reactions. Victims should understand the normal progression of emotions they may be likely to encounter. Some of the emotional concerns that should be outlined are the following: a) Immediate physical and mental reactions to the crisis including inability to sleep and concentrate, lack of appetite, irritability, anxiety, numbness, estrangement from the world, and a sense of isolation, anger, fear, frustration, and grief b) Long-term physical and mental reactions may include intrusive thoughts, nightmares, panic attacks, a continued sense of isolation, an inability to communicate with others, sleep disturbances, depression, an inability to feel emotion, disturbance of sexual activity, startle reactions, irritability, lack of concentration, and so on 4 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. c) Reactions of significant others (some friends and family may serve as a good source of support, but many can cause as much harm as good). Three common reactions that may cause a victim distress are (1) Excessive anger and blame directed at the victim (2) An unwillingness to talk about or listen to stories about the crime (3) Overprotectiveness d) Victims should expect that everyday events may trigger crisis reactions similar to the ones they experienced during the crime e) Help victims to prepare for the fact that children, even if they were not present during the event, can be affected when their parents are in crisis. Help the victim identify who might be able to help address the needs of the children f) If children are involved, give the parent information and suggestions for helping the children cope with crisis, and signs to look for that may indicate a need for professional intervention with the children g) Victims need help preparing ways to deal with the practical and emotional future. Some helpful hints include (1) Take one day at a time: suggest that the victim plan each day’s activities around needed practical tasks (2) Problem-solving: show the victim how to use techniques to address the overwhelming problems that he or she might face (3) Talk and write about the event: suggest that the victim use audiotapes or write a journal to tell his or her unfolding stories. Young children can be encouraged to draw pictures and discuss them with a caring adult (4) Encourage the victims to identify a friend or a family member on whom they can rely for support during the times when they must confront practical problems (5) Remember that good nutrition, adequate sleep, and moderate exercise can help victims survive times of crisis II. Explaining Victims’ Rights A. Identify a Crime Victim Liaison, Code of Criminal Procedures (CCP) Article 56.04 1. The district attorney or county attorney shall designate a person to serve as a victim assistance coordinator 2. A victim assistance coordinator’s duties include ensuring victims are granted rights afforded to them under law 3. Each law enforcement agency shall designate a person to serve as a crime victim liaison, which will consult with the coordinator in the district attorney’s office 5 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. B. Legal Requirements for Providing Written Notice 1. At the earliest possible time after initial contact, the law enforcement agency shall provide the victim with a written notice of the following a) Information about the availability of emergency and medical services b) Referral to available social services c) Information regarding the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act, including the following information: (1) Costs that may be compensated (2) Eligibility (3) Procedures for application (4) Payment for medical examination for sexual assault (5) Name, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency’s victim assistance liaison (6) The address, phone number, and name of crime the victim assistance coordinator from the district attorney (7) The following statement: “You may call the law enforcement agency’s telephone number for the status of the case and information about victims’ rights.” (8) The rights of crime victims C. Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, CCP Article 56.02 includes the rights to 1. Adequate protection by law enforcement agencies 2. Have the safety of the victim and the victim’s family taken into consideration when setting bail 3. Be informed about the defendant’s right to bail and procedures of the criminal justice investigation 4. Provide victim impact information to a probation department 5. Receive Crime Victim Compensation information 6. be informed of parole procedures and proceedings, and Participate in the process 7. Have separate and secure waiting areas from the offender and the offender’s relatives while waiting to testify and during proceedings. 8. Experience the prompt return of the victim’s property held as evidence 9. Prosecution’s notification of the victim’s employer of the victim’s absence from work to testify 10. Be present at all public court proceedings related to the offense, subject to approval of the judge in the case D. The Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act (TCVC) was passed in 1979 by legislature and established statutory eligibility guidelines for the provision of certain benefits to crime victims. Money in the fund comes from the offender assessed court costs generated by criminal convictions. The fund is administered by the Texas Attorney General 1. Eligibility 6 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 2. 3. a) An innocent victim of crime that suffers physical and/or emotional harm or death b) An authorized individual acting on the behalf of a victim c) A person who legally assumes the obligations or voluntarily pays certain expenses related to the crime on the behalf of the victim d) A department of a victim e) An immediate family member or household member related by blood or marriage who requires psychiatric care or counseling as a result of the crime f) An intervener who goes to the aid of the victim or a peace officer g) A peace officer, a firefighter, or an individual whose employment includes the duty of protecting the public Crimes Covered a) Crimes involving “criminally injurious conduct,” which is defined as conduct that (1) Occurs or is attempted (2) Poses a substantial threat of personal injury or death (3) Is or would be punishable by fine, imprisonment, or death; this includes (a) Sex offenses (b) Kidnapping (c) Aggravated robbery (d) Assaultive offenses (e) Arson (f) Homicide (g) Failure to stop and render aid (h) Manslaughter (i) Criminally negligent homicide (j) Aggravated assault (k) Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) (l) Intoxication manslaughter (m)Intoxication assault Basic Qualifications a) Residency (1) Crime occurs in Texas to a Texas or U.S. resident (2) Texas resident is the victim in another state that does not have Crime Victim Compensation (CVC) benefits b) Reporting the crime – the crime must be reported to the appropriate law enforcement agency within a reasonable amount of time c) Timeframe for filing for compensation – the application must be filed within 3 years of the crime date d) Cooperation – a claim may be denied or reduced if the victim is uncooperative with law enforcement 7 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 4. 5. e) Benefits denial (1) If the victim’s behavior contributed to the crime (2) If the victim knowingly or willingly participated in the crime (3) If the offender, an accomplice, or any person may unjustly benefit from an award to a victim or claimant (4) If the victim was incarcerated in a penal institution or on parole (5) If the victim had been convicted for a felony involving criminally injurious conduct at the time of the crime (6) If the victim knowingly or intentionally submitted false or forged information to the Attorney General Eligible Expenses a) Medical, hospital, physical therapy, or nursing care b) Psychiatric care or counseling c) Loss of earnings or support d) Loss of wages as a direct result of the crime, or due to participation in, or attendance at, the investigation, prosecutorial, and judicial processes, and travel expenses e) Care for a dependent f) Funeral and burial expenses g) Crime scene cleanup h) Replacement cost for clothing, bedding, or property seized as evidence or rendered unusable as the result of the investigation of a sexual assault i) Reasonable attorney fees for assistance with filing the CVC application j) Loss of wages and travel to seek medical treatment k) Relocation expenses in domestic violence cases, including movers, deposits, first month’s rent, etc. Limits on awards a) Claims may be approved for a total benefit of $50,000 b) Paid to the victim or the service provider c) Catastrophic injuries/permanent disability may receive an additional $50,000 for (1) Making a home or car accessible (2) Job training and vocational rehabilitation (3) Training in the use of special appliances (4) Home healthcare (5) Reimbursement of lost wages (a) Reimbursement for property damage or theft is not eligible (b) CVC is the “payer of last resort” and pays after other sources pay first (insurance, employee sick time) III. Procedures for suspects, victims and witnesses A. Suspects 8 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 1. 2. 3. Interview/interrogation Investigation (gathering of evidence) Grand jury a) No bill (no charges filed) b) Indictment equals arrest 4. Arraignment: enter plea and bail is set or denied a) Guilty = sentencing hearing b) Not Guilty = schedule trial c) No Contest 5. Trial a) Guilty = proceed to sentencing hearing b) Not Guilty = suspect is released 6. Sentencing hearing (any number of punishments including probation, fines, and even death) B. Victims and Witnesses (Review the handouts “Hints for Helping Victims,” “Phases of Victims’ Reactions,” and “Things to Say and Things Not to Say to a Victim.” Use the guidelines set out in the documents to determine how victims should be handled) 1. Interview by law enforcement 2. Gathering of evidence 3. If probable cause exists, the arrest of the suspect 4. Trial a) Prosecution will prepare you for the trial b) Will have a separate waiting area from the defense c) May or may not be allowed to remain in the courtroom after testifying d) Swear to tell the truth e) Must answer all of the questions f) Listen carefully to each question g) Answer to the best of your ability h) Prosecutor will ask questions first, then the defense i) Time spent in court cannot be predetermined IV. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities – persons with disabilities can request special assistance during the court process per Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Federal Law A. Autism 1. Very vulnerable to becoming a victim 2. Communication, sensory processing, and behavioral differences 3. Personnel need training and education 4. Believability of the victim 5. Speech and cognition difficulties 6. Judges too quickly B. Alzheimer’s 1. Include the victim in all of the conversations 2. Explain the intended actions prior to beginning them 9 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 3. If agitated, gently pat them or hold their hand 4. Avoid restraining physical contact 5. Anticipate difficulties in making yourself understood 6. Approach from the front 7. Establish and maintain eye contact 8. Introduce yourself 9. Explain that you are there to help 10. Be patient 11. Ask to see his or her identification 12. Treat the victim with dignity 13. Move away from crowded and noisy areas 14. Establish a one-on-one dialogue 15. Talk in a low-pitched, reassuring tone 16. Speak slowly and clearly 17. Use short, simple sentences and familiar words 18. Repeat your statements 19. Accompany words with gestures 20. Give simple, step-by-step instructions 21. Substitute verbal with nonverbal 22. Ask one question at a time 23. Never challenge a victim’s logic/reasoning 24. Do not leave the victim alone C. Blind/Vision Impaired 1. Introduce yourself as law enforcement and introduce anyone else that is present 2. Tell the victim your name, badge number, and telephone number if they are alone and want to verify your ID 3. Describe the chair and the seating arrangements when assisting the victim with sitting down; place his or her hand on the back of the chair 4. Do not speak loudly 5. Identify the person to whom you are speaking within the group 6. Avoid lapses of conversation in your interview without informing the victim 7. Offer to fill out forms for the victim 8. Read written materials aloud 9. Make written materials available in other formats if possible 10. Never separate victims from their guide/pet dogs without permission 11. Offer your arm for assistance in moving about 12. Orient the victim to the surroundings; give cues to what lies ahead when guiding 13. Give specific warnings and directions D. Deaf/Hard of Hearing 1. Signal your presence by waving your hand or gently touching the victim on his or her arm/shoulder 10 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Communicate initially through writing Determine the method of communication Honor any request for an interpreter Do not use children to communicate unless it is an emergency Do not assume he or she can hear and understand if wearing a hearing aid 7. Remember to be visually oriented 8. Avoid shouting or speaking very slowly 9. Remember that not everyone who is deaf/hearing impaired can read lips 10. Use gestures, mime, and props to communicate 11. Do not assume the victim is unable to speak 12. Observe facial expressions/physical mannerisms 13. Include the victim in all conversations 14. When interviewing, select a location free of distractions 15. Face the victim, making your eyes and mouth visible 16. Stand 3 to 6 feet from the victim in a well-lit, glare and shadow free area 17. Get the victim’s attention, make eye contact, then speak 18. Make questions, instructions, answers, and comments short and simple 19. May need to repeat yourself or use different words 20. Do not rely on the victim’s family members E. Physically Impaired 1. Ask, “May I assist you?” 2. Do not make assumptions about abilities 3. Treat assistive devices as personal space and valuable property 4. Position yourself at eye level in front of the victim, but do not kneel 5. Move obstacles 6. Open or close doors to alleviate barriers 7. Offer to assist if he or she has trouble in tight places 8. If assisting with an individual in a wheelchair, ask which direction he or she wants to face when going up or down stairs 9. Be considerate of the extra time needed to move 10. Ask the victim if he or she has a seating preference 11. If the victim is in a wheelchair, ask if he or she would like to move to another chair 12. Remember the victim’s disability does not affect the viewing of the crime 13. Never refer to the victim as “crippled,” “confined” to a wheelchair, “wheelchair bound,” or “handicapped” 14. Ask if the wheelchair was damaged during the crime. If needed, offer to assist with repairs or getting a loaner 15. Make referrals for services 16. Help replace caregivers if needed 11 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 17. Offer to assist in filling out paperwork 18. Present information materials to the victim Activities 1. Crime Victims’ Rights Pamphlet. Students will create a pamphlet for victims of violent crimes. The pamphlet needs to include all of the required information that victims are entitled to know. Pamphlets may be designed using a computer with desktop publishing software or may be handmade. Students may refer to Article 56 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure for the definition of a victim, the rights afforded to a victim and the eligibility for Crime Victims’ Compensation. Use the Crime Victim Brochure Rubric for assessment. 2. Step-by-Step. Prepare several sets of index cards containing the step-bystep procedures of the court process for suspects. Each card will hold only one step. Place the students in groups. Give each group a set of index cards. Have the students race to put the steps in order while discussing with their group the reasoning for their choices. Have the students in each group list the order they created and have them explain their reasons for choosing that order. Use the Presentation Rubric for assessment. Assessments More Victims’ Rights Exam and Key Crime Victim Brochure Rubric Discussion Rubric Individual Work Rubric Presentation Rubric Summary Rubric Materials More Victims’ Rights computer-based presentation Things to Say and Things Not to Say to a Victim handout Hints for Helping Victims handout Phases of Victims’ Reactions handout Computers with Internet access and desktop publishing software Construction paper Magazines Scissors Glue Markers/colors Note Cards Resources Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Education (TCLEOSE) training objectives for the Basic Peace Officer Licensing 12 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. “Victim Assistance: Frontiers and Fundamentals” and “Community Crisis Response Team Training Manual” by Marlene Young, PhD of the National Organization for Victim Assistance Derrelyn Perryman, MSSW, LMSW-ACP, Victim Assistance Coordinator, Arlington Police Department Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 56 http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/SOTWDocs/CR/htm/CR.56.htm Accommodations for Learning Differences For reinforcement, students will review Article 56 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure and create a pocket-sized card containing Victims’ Rights. Use the Individual Work Rubric for assessment. For enrichment, students will interview a victim assistance coordinator from a local law enforcement agency or a district attorney’s office about his or her job duties. The interview should include job duties, salary, education required, and the reason for choosing this job. Have the student write a summary of the experience. Use the Summary Rubric for assessment. State Education Standards Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Career and Technical Education §130.294. Law Enforcement II (One to Two Credits). (6) The student understands techniques to foster public cooperation for victims in a variety of law enforcement situations. The student is expected to: (A) determine procedures for advising crime victims' legal recourse; (B) explain step-by-step court procedures for suspects, victims, and witnesses entering the system; (C) explain the procedures for providing appropriate assistance to individuals with disabilities such as autism, Alzheimer's disease, the hearing impaired, the visually impaired, and the mobility impaired; and College and Career Readiness Standards I. Key Cognitive Skills Standards B. Reasoning 1. Consider arguments and conclusions of self and others. 2. Construct well-reasoned arguments to explain phenomena E. Work habits 1. Work independently. 2. Work collaboratively. 13 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Hints for Helping Victims Ask the victims to describe the event Ask the victims to describe where they were, who they were with, and what they saw, heard, touched or did at the time of the crime. Ask the victims what they remember thinking at the time, as they became aware of what was happening. Ask the victims to describe their reactions and responses. As the victims begin the description, remember to validate their reactions and responses. If they say, “I remember turning stone cold when I felt his hand on my back and a tug at my purse,” say, “Some people have called that the ‘frozen fright’ reaction.” Ask the victims to describe what has happened since the crime, including contact with family members, friends, the criminal justice system, and so on. Ask the victims to describe other reactions they have experienced up to now, again validating those reactions. If some time has passed, ask if the victims are experiencing any difficulty with eating, sleeping, irritability, concentration, intense emotions, or numbness, etc. Try to determine at what level the victims have been able to function in the aftermath. You may want to take note of these symptoms. Determine if their reactions are or are not improving over time. If they are not improving refer the victims for additional help. Review the Things to Say and Things Not to Say to a Victim handout To improve communication with the victims, avoid words like o “Feelings” – it’s better to stick with words like “reactions” o “Share” or “Sharing” – instead ask them to tell you about their experiences. Do not ask them to share or thank them for sharing their experience; no one can truly share a person’s experience, even if they have been through a similar event. o “Client,” “victim,” or “survivor” – use the person’s preferred name instead o Avoid “alleged” when referring to victims. Let the lawyers speak of the “alleged” victims or suspects. Victim advocates should assume that the people who describe themselves as a victim are what they say they are, victims of crime. 14 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Phases of Victim Reactions IMPACT Shock Disorientation Disbelief Numb Physically immobilized Feelings of vulnerability Helplessness Loneliness Dependent Feels abandoned Inability to recall details Confused Notes insensitivity of others Despair Violation of trust Fear NEEDS Physical presence Explanations of the incident Supportive person No expectations Provide safety Provide security Understanding Physical presence Fulfill dependency needs Arrange for a companion No demands Supportive explanations Sensitivity Assurances Kept promises Reality testing RECOIL Denial Irrational fears Anger Sadness Self-pity Guilt Tiredness Emotionally detached Diminished interest Hyperactivity Re-experience of feelings Intrusions of thoughts Shame Moody Anxious Nightmares NEEDS Listen; ask questions Listen; reality testing Express it; fantasize Physical presence Listen; ventilate Listen; ask questions Restrict demands Physical but nonintrusive presence Support Encouragement to slow down Listen; ventilate Express thinking Reality testing Understanding Encourage focus Write out RECOVERY/REORGANIZATION Emotional energy returns Balanced Suffering lessens Regains a sense of trust Ability to sleep/eat normally Appreciation of life May become active in organizations to help similar victims NEEDS Supportive environment Do not rush or make unrealistic demands Nonjudgmental Acceptance of victim Simply present in mind, body, and spirit throughout the ordeal 15 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Things To Say and Not To Say to a Victim DO NOT Ask blaming questions – Why? Tell them everything is all right if it is not Answer questions that you do not know the answers to Make promises that you cannot deliver Use jargon (PR bond, CBW, TDC) Force details Use emotionally charged words Make demands Insist on talking – silence is okay Impose your religious beliefs or personal philosophy Judge DO NOT SAY “It’s God’s Will” “You’re so strong; I know you can handle this.” “Tell me what I can do” “I understand” “I know how you feel” (unless you have been through the exact same experience) “He’s with God now and at peace” “It was a blessing that…” “You will get over this” “Remember to be strong for the children”, etc. “Just be thankful that…” “You’re lucky that…” “He probably didn’t know what hit him” DO SAY “I am sorry that this has happened.” “I cannot imagine how difficult this must be for you.” “I would like to be with you for a while if you don’t mind.” “Would you like for me to help you with…” “It’s not your fault.” 16 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Name________________________________ Date__________________________ More Victims’ Rights 1) _____ The victim may not FEEL safe under all but which of the following circumstances? a) The victim can see and hear the assailant being interviewed b) The victim is being interviewed in the same area where the attack took place c) The victim is cold and uncomfortable d) The victim is given necessary medical care and removed to a quiet location 2) _____ Which is not a helpful hint for allowing a victim to regain control? a) Stand up to talk b) Ask the victim where they feel safest c) Ask if there is anyone they would like to have with them d) Give permission to express any reactions 3) _____ When responding to the need for nurturing a victim, which would be an appropriate response? a) Take care of the practical things b) Suggest specific things you can do for the victim c) Allow them to make choices for themselves d) All of the above 4) _____ Victims need to tell their story over and over to gain a feeling of control over the events they suffered. What is this process called? a) Ventilation b) Validation c) Listening d) Prediction 17 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 5) _____ The process through which the crisis intervener makes it clear that most reactions to horrific events are "normal" is called what? a) Ventilation b) Validation c) Prediction d) Listening 6) _____ A part of ventilation is the process of finding words or other ways that will give expression to experiences and reactions. a) True b) False 7) _____ One of the least important things you can do in a crisis situation is to listen. a) True b) False 8) _____ Bits of memory may come back in all but which of the following forms? a) Validation b) Dreams c) Intrusive thoughts d) Story telling 9) _____ You should always leave written materials for victims to refer to when needed. a) True b) False 10) _____ You should promise the victim that suspects are arrested 100% of the time. a) True b) False 11) _____ The second priority for preparing victims is to provide information on possible or likely emotional reactions. Some of the emotional concerns that should be considered are a) Immediate physical and mental reactions to crisis b) Long term physical and mental reactions c) Reactions of significant others d) All of the above 18 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 12) _____ Which is NOT a response that a victim may get from a significant other following a crisis event? a) Throwing a celebration that the victim survived b) Excessive anger and blame directed at the victim c) Unwillingness to talk about or listen to stories of the crime d) Overprotectiveness 13) _____ Victims need assistance with preparing ways to deal with the practical and emotional future. Some helpful hints include all but which of the following? a) Take one day at a time b) Problem-solving c) Talking and writing about the event d) Encouraging the victim to process his or her emotions in private 14) _____ Although children may not have been present during a crisis event, they can still be affected. a) True b) False 15) _____ Victims should be reminded to do all except which of the following? a) Drink excessive alcohol b) Get good nutrition c) Get adequate sleep d) Get moderate exercise 16) _____ Article 56.04 of the Code of Criminal Procedure requires that district or county attorneys’ offices shall designate a person to serve as a) Crime victim liaison b) Victim assistance coordinator c) Victim assistance staff d) Victims’ rights coordinator 19 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 17) _____ Each law enforcement agency is required under Art. 56.04 of Criminal Code of Procedure to designate a person to serve as a) Victim assistance coordinator b) Crime victim liaison c) Victim assistance staff d) Victims’ rights coordinator 18) _____ Victims must receive a written notice of all except which of the following? a) Texas Crime Victim Compensation Act b) Information about the availability of emergency and medical services c) Referrals to private counselors d) Referrals to social services 19) _____ Information on the Texas Crime Victims Compensation Act must include a) Costs that may be compensated b) Rights of the crime victims c) Procedures for application d) All of the above 20) _____ Which of the following is not included in the Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights? a) Insufficient protection by a law enforcement agency b) Prompt return of the victim's property being held as evidence c) Separate and secure waiting area during criminal proceedings d) Right to be present at all public court proceedings 21) _____ Eligibility for the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act must include all except which of the following guidelines? a) Innocent victim of crime suffers physical or emotional harm b) A dependent of a victim c) A participant in the crime d) A peace officer, fire fighter, or individual whose employment includes the duty of protecting the public 20 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 22) _____ All of the following crimes are covered under the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act except a) Sex offenses b) Burglary c) Arson d) DWI 23) _____ All except which of the following are basic qualifications of the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act? a) Benefits Denial b) Residency c) Cooperation with law enforcement d) Timeframe for filing 24) _____ To be eligible for the Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act a victim must be a Texas or U.S. resident, the crime has to occur in Texas, or a Texas resident is a victim in a state that does not have crime victim compensation. a) True b) False 25) _____ Denial of benefits for Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation may occur for all except which of the following reasons? a) Victim's behavior contributed to the crime b) The victim knowingly or intentionally submitted truthful information to the Attorney General c) The victim was incarcerated in a penal institution or on parole d) The victim is the offender or accomplice of the offender 26) _____ Which is not an eligible expense under Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act? a) Crime scene cleanup b) Psychiatric care or counseling c) Burial or funeral expenses d) A new residence 21 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 27) _____ The Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act will pay total benefits up to _______. a) $100,000 b) $50,000 c) $25,000 d) Any amount needed 28) _____ Victims who suffer catastrophic injuries or permanent disabilities may receive an additional $50,000 for all except which of the following expenses? a) Making home or care accessible b) Lifetime nursing care c) Reimbursement of lost wages d) Job training and vocational rehabilitation 29) _____ The Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Act pays before other sources such as insurance and employee sick time. a) True b) False 30) _____ Suspects, victims, and witnesses will all be interviewed by law enforcement at the beginning of a criminal investigation. a) True b) False 31) _____ All except which one of the pleas below may be entered at the time of arraignment? a) No contest b) Guilty c) Plead the 5th d) Not Guilty 32) _____ Which of the following is NOT an accommodation that should be implemented when dealing with someone who has Alzheimer’s disease? a) Exclude the victim from all conversations b) Explain the intended actions prior to beginning them c) Establish and maintain eye contact d) Talk in a low-pitched, reassuring tone 22 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 33) _____ Persons with which disability should be treated with dignity, moved away from crowded and noisy areas, and asked one question at a time? a) Autism b) Deaf/Hard of Hearing c) Alzheimer's disease d) Blind/Vision Impaired 34) _____ Which of the following steps should be taken when addressing a blind or visionimpaired victim? a) Introduce yourself and anyone else that is present b) Read written materials aloud c) Give specific warnings and directions d) All of the above 35) _____ Accommodations for deaf or hard of hearing victims should include a) Honor a request for an interpreter b) Avoid shouting or speaking very slow c) Use gestures, mime, and props to communicate d) All of the above 36) _____ When addressing a physically impaired victim, you should follow which of the following guidelines? a) Position yourself in front of the victim at eye level b) Be considerate of the extra time needed to move c) Open or close doors to alleviate barriers d) All of the above 37) _____ Which of the special types of victims are visually oriented? a) Deaf/hard of hearing b) Blind/vision impaired c) Physically impaired d) Autistic 23 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. 38) _____ Victims with which disability should not be judged too quickly and are very vulnerable to becoming a victim? a) Alzheimer's disease b) Autism c) Deaf/Hearing impaired d) Physically impaired 39) _____ Victims may receive reimbursement for property damage or theft under the Texas Victims’ Compensation Act. a) True b) False 40) _____ Which of the following is not an element of crisis intervention? a) Safety and security b) Legality and liaison c) Ventilation and validation d) Prediction and preparation 24 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. More Victims’ Rights Exam Key 1) D 2) A 3) D 4) A 5) B 6) A 7) B 8) A 9) A 10) B 11) D 12) A 13) D 14) A 15) A 16) B 17) B 18) C 19) D 20) A 21) C 22) B 23) A 24) A 25) B 26) D 27) A 28) B 29) A 30) A 31) A 32) A 33) C 34) D 35) D 36) D 37) A 38) B 39) B 40) B 25 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Name_______________________________________ Date_______________________________ Crime Victim Brochure Rubric Objectives Attractiveness and Organization Content Accuracy Knowledge Gained 4 pts. Excellent The brochure has exceptionally attractive formatting and well-organized information. Includes agency name and contact information, a resource list, rights of victims, and Crime Victim Compensation information Students can accurately answer all questions related to the facts in the project and the processes used to create the project. 3 pts. Good The brochure has attractive formatting and well-organized information. 2 pts. Needs Some Improvement The brochure has well-organized information. Includes all but one: agency name and contact information, a resource list, rights of victims, and Crime Victim Compensation info Includes all but two: agency name and contact information, a resource list, rights of victims, and crime victim compensation information Students can accurately answer most questions related to facts in the project and processes used to create the project Student can accurately answer half of the questions related to facts in the project and processes used to create a project. 1 pt. Needs Much Improvement The brochure's formatting and organization are confusing to the reader. Excludes all but one: agency name and contact information, a resource list, rights of victims, and crime victim compensation information N/A Pts. Student appears to have insufficient knowledge about the facts or processes used in the project. Total Points (12 pts.) Comments: 26 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Name_______________________________________ Date_______________________________ Discussion Rubric Objectives 4 pts. Excellent 3 pts. Good 2 pts. Needs Some Improvement 1 pt. Needs Much Improvement N/A Pts. Participates in group discussion Encourages others to join the conversation Keeps the discussion progressing to achieve goals Shares thoughts actively while offering helpful recommendations to others Gives credit to others for their ideas Respects the opinions of others Involves others by asking questions or requesting input Expresses thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively Total Points (32 pts.) Comments: 27 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Name______________________________________ Date_______________________________________ Individual Work Rubric 4 pts. Excellent Objectives 3 pts. Good 2 pts. Needs Some Improvement 1 pt. Needs Much Improvement N/A Pts. Follows directions Student completed the work as directed, following the directions given, in order and to the level of quality indicated Time management Student used time wisely and remained on task 100% of the time Organization Student kept notes and materials in a neat, legible, and organized manner. Information was readily retrieved Evidence of learning Student documented information in his or her own words and can accurately answer questions related to the information retrieved *Research/Gathering information (if relevant) Student used a variety of methods and sources to gather information. Student took notes while gathering information Total Points (20 pts.) Comments: 28 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Name:____________________________________ Date:_____________________________ Presentation Rubric 4 pts. Excellent Objectives 3 pts. Good 2 pts. Needs Some Improvement 1 pt. Needs Much Improvement N/A Pts. Topic/Content Topic discussed completely and in-depth Includes properly cited sources (if used) Creativity/Neatness Integrates a variety of multimedia effects to create a professional presentation (transition and graphics) or appropriate visual aid used Title slide, table of contents, bibliography are included, using acceptable format Mechanics Grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization are correct Image and font size are legible to the entire audience Oral Presentation Communicates with enthusiasm and eye contact Voice delivery and projection are dynamic and audible Audience Interaction Presentation holds audience’s attention and relates a clear message Clearly and effectively communicates the content throughout the presentation Total Points (20 pts.) Comments: 29 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved. Name_______________________________________ Date_______________________________ Summary Rubric Objectives 4 pts. Excellent 3 pts. Good 2 pts. Needs Some Improvement 1 pt. Needs Much Improvement N/A Pts. The critical analysis has all required parts from introduction to body to conclusion. The critical analysis is concise but complete. The critical analysis demonstrates that the writer comprehends the content. The critical analysis demonstrates accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation. The overall content of the critical analysis emphasizes appropriate points. The writer shows an understanding of sentence structure, paragraphing, and punctuation. The source of the critical analysis is clearly and accurately documented. The critical analysis demonstrates the correct use of terminology. Total Points (32 pts.) Comments: 30 Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2011. All rights reserved.