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Newport News Police Department - Administrative Manual
ADM-135 - VICTIM/WITNESS ASSISTANCE
Amends/Supersedes: ADM-135 (10/23/2019) Date of Issue: 04/04/2022
I. GENERAL
A. The Newport News Police Department (NNPD) recognizes that professional and compassionate
conduct, when interactive with victims and witnesses, can reduce trauma and re-victimization during
the reporting, investigation, and prosecution of criminal conduct. All employees working directly with
victims and witnesses will adhere to the Virginia Crime Victim and Witness Rights act by treating
victims and witnesses with dignity, respect, sensitivity, making every effort to protect their privacy.
[55.1.1(a)]
B. The NNPD provides information to victims and witnesses who may be eligible for compensation or
reimbursement from the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition, any victim or witness who requires
specific services or further assistance will be directed to the responsible agencies or person.
Information, including crime victims' rights, is available in the What Happens Next Pamphlet (NNPD
Form #204a). All employees who work directly with victims and witnesses should understand the
pamphlet's contents. [55.1.1 (e)]
II. DEFINITION OF TERMS
A. Case agent: The officer or detective responsible for overall case management and investigation.
Sometimes referred to as the lead investigator.
B. Victims: any person who suffers personal, physical, mental, emotional, or monetary loss as a direct
result of a crime. (see §19.2-368.19)
C. Victim Advocate: A person authorized by the agency to assist victims and witnesses. They may be
agency members (sworn or non-sworn), including volunteers or interns.
D. Witness: any person not identified as an offender who observed criminal conduct and may be called
upon to provide information regarding their observations.
III. PROCEDURE
A. Organizational Structure [55.1.1(d)]
1. NNPD collaborates with the Commonwealth Attorney Office's Victim Services Unit to provide
victims with access to services and assistance navigating the court process. The Victim Services
Unit serves as NNPD’s primary victim services provider. [55.2.1b, 55.2.4(f)]
2. NNPD employs specially trained personnel to assist victims and witnesses with obtaining support
and follow-up services in cooperation with the primary service provider. While these positions
may be assigned to a specific criminal investigations unit, they may provide referral services to
any victim or witness, regardless of the type of crime.
3. NNPD maintains partnerships with various government and community-based services providers:
a. Transitions Family Violence Center specializes in assisting domestic violence victims,
including emergency shelter services and a 24-hour crisis line. (757) 723-7774
b. The Center for Sexual Assault Survivors specializes in sexual and intimate partner violence,
including a 24-hour crisis line. (757) 236-5260
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