Victim Advocate position re-budgeted

The city of Sarasota has reinstated the Victim Advocate position at the Sarasota Police Department.

The Victim Advocate position was eliminated two years ago due to budget constraints. After receiving a report from the Independent Police Advisory Panel emphasizing the community-wide need for such a position, the City Commission reinstated it for the 2012-2013 budget, which began October 1.

The Victim Advocate provides services and support for crime victims, and is also the liaison between the Sarasota Police Department, the State Attorney’s Office and various community support groups which work to protect crime victims’ rights. The Sarasota Police Department is currently is in the process of hiring a Victim Advocate.