Job Title:

Crime Victim Liaison

Department:

Police Department

Reports to:

Chief of Police

FLSA Classification:

Non-Exempt

Safety Sensitive Type:

Safety Sensitive

Effective Date:

05/01/2022

Job Summary:

The purpose of this position is to insure that all victims of violent crimes are made aware of all the protections and benefits afforded them in accordance with Article 56.02 (a) of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedures. The Crime Victim Liaison will conduct follow - ups on reports that have been submitted by victims and will include public presentations to different groups within our community. Individual will be performing other duties assigned by supervisor/department head when needed. The Crime Victim Liaison will be under the direction and supervision of the Chief of Police.

Essential Job Functions:

Note: This information is intended to be descriptive of the key responsibilities of the position. The list of essential functions below does not identify all duties performed by any single incumbent in this position.

a. Reviews reports of crimes and contacts the victim, guardian, or designated relative to insure they are aware of all services and benefits.

b. Assists any victim, guardian or designated relative in preparing the required paperwork.

c. Obtains medical bills/other documented expenses incurred by the victim and submits to proper agency.

d. Coordinates data and reports generated for maintaining the grant as well as submitting required items for the grant.

e. Maintains a close working relationship with the Crime Victims Coordinator.

f. Coordinates with officers of the Edinburg Police Department and monitors the progress of investigations.

g. Maintains adequate supply of packets in both English and Spanish.

1. Provides and maintains lists of agencies available to assist victims of violent crimes.
2. Insures proper references are made for assistance in counseling, shelter, medical, and other department of human services that may be available.
3. Attends area and out of area meetings, trainings and workshops as scheduled.
4. Drives City vehicle to assist victims with no mode of transportation.

l. Performs related work and reports as assigned.

Conditions of Employment:

a. Applicant will be subject to a complete background investigation. Incomplete, inaccurate and/or failure to report information will cause the applicant rejection from consideration.

b. Applicant must take and pass a pre-employment drug test administered by the City of Edinburg at the City's expense.

c. Must have a current valid class "C" driver's license from the Texas Department of Public Safety with a satisfactory driving record.

d. Bilingual English/Spanish required.

Required Education:

Associate's degree in sociology, psychology or criminal justice.

Education Preference:

Bachelor's degree in related fields.

Educational Substitute:

Additional education and experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience may be substituted for the above requirements.

Required Work Experience:

Requires two (2) years' experience as a Crime victim liaison.

Experience Preference:

Four (4) years' experience in related fields.

Supervisory Experience Requirement:

Not Applicable

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

a. Ability to communicate in English and the Spanish language.

b. Ability to work effectively and efficiently independent of constant supervision.

c. Ability to perform well in stressful situations.

d. Ability to make decisions based on personal judgment.

e. Ability to prioritize emergencies by threat to life and/or property.

f. Ability to perform a wide variety of different types of tasks without the variety itself causing a loss of efficiency.

g. Requires a working knowledge of court functions and general office procedures.

h. Work may require providing advice to others outside direct reporting relationships on specific problems or general policies. Contacts may require the consideration of different points of view to reach agreement. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas.

i. Work requires advanced skills and knowledge in approaches and systems, which affect the design and implementation of major programs and/or processes organization-wide. Independent judgment and decision-making abilities are necessary to apply technical skills effectively.

j. Intermediate computer skills in a Microsoft Windows environment; includes Excel, Word, Publisher, database management, and record keeping.

k. Knowledge of program regulations, guidelines and requirements, basic accounting procedures and practices, and information gathering techniques.

l. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with public agencies, City Departments, and the general public.

m. Organizational and multi-tasking skills.

n. Provide Direct Victim Services - include but not limited to the following activities:

Accompaniment to Hospitals, Law Enforcement Offices, Prosecutors' Offices and Courts

Advocacy

Assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation

Assistance with Restitution

Assistance with Texas SAVNS

Assistance with Victim Impact Panels

Assistance with Victim Impact Statements

Crisis Intervention

Emergency Funds

Follow up with Victim

Groups (Support, Therapeutic)

Information and Referral

Individual Counseling

Peer Support Services

Legal Assistance

Lodging

Transportation

Other Direct Victim Services

Equipment Materials:

General office and safety equipment/materials to include but not limited to the following:

· Personal computer, cell phone, telephone

· Adding machine, laptop, City vehicle

· Copy Machine, fax machine, keyboard

· Policy and Procedure handbook

Work Conditions:

Relatively free from unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards. Office environment.

Mental Demands:

While performing the duties of this class, the incumbent is regularly required to use written and oral communication skills; read and interpret data, information and documents; use math and mathematical reasoning; perform detailed work, multiple tasks; work with constant interruptions; and interact with staff and the public.