Working with Sexual Assault Victims

When interviewing sexual assault victims, there are many considerations a deputy needs to take into account.

Key Concept: There is no "right" reaction for victims to have concerning the very personal crime that was perpetrated upon them. 

Most victims experience a number of different emotions throughout the course of the prosecution. Deputies need to be sensitive to this possibility. One time you talk with the victim she may be adamant about participating in the prosecution and the next time you meet she may want to drop the case. Both of these reactions are normal and though may seem contradictory to you as a deputy, it seems perfectly logical for the victim.

Your first Victim Meeting should be one where you introduce yourself, get to know her, explain the process and the system to her and answer any questions she may have. It is important to have the Victim Advocate present at this meeting. You will need to establish trust with the victim. This happens over time when the deputy is consistently professional and caring. Talking about the facts of the case at the first meeting is too much for most victims to handle.

Sometimes victims will miss appointments. Do not assume that means she does not care about the case. Sexual assault victims have problems with trust and she may very well just be testing you to see how committed you are to "her" case. Give her opportunity to come around and see that you are there for her.

When you do meet with the victim to discuss the facts of the case, make sure you are in a private and quiet place in the office. Ask if she would like something to drink and have some tissues available. For many victims, describing the assault in detail brings back all of the trauma they experienced at the time of the crime. Let her tell the events her way without interruption. Then you can follow up with specific questions.

If plea bargaining is to be discussed, take time with your victim and victim advocate to fully explain the options and answer any questions she may have. Remind her how important her input is to this decision but that the ultimate call has to be yours as the D.A. Do not expect that she will be able to give you her input right away. She may need some time to think it over in her mind. Give her a reasonable deadline for getting back with you.

Meetings with sexual assault victims can be very difficult. It is emotionally draining for all involved. Seek assistance from other deputies and utilize the expertise of the victim advocates.