Taking information on stalking situations.
As a victim advocate, your best friend became a victim of a crime of violence after being stalked for several months, and that incident changed your life. You provided comfort and support to your friend during the judicial process and you guided that friend through the criminal judicial process. Your efforts were successful in obtaining the help needed and criminal justice outcomes desired by your friend.
The new prosecutor for whom you have been working as a victims' witness assistant has had several calls from victims of stalking. Some cases seem more serious than other cases; however, one case that no one in the office thought was serious resulted in the victim's death. Everyone thought that the couple was just going through a difficult breakup. This case had a tremendous impact on the entire office, especially you.
To help make sure that the office does not minimize a potentially dangerous situation again, the prosecutor has asked you to put together an intake, evaluation, and assessment instrument to be used in taking information on stalking situations. Be sure to check stalking statutes, and cite the elements of the crime of stalking in your documents.
In 2 pages, provide a guide for using the intake form for stalking or other crime victims.
Sample Solution
Intake Form for Stalking or Other Crime Victims Purpose: To evaluate and assess stalking cases or other violent crimes that are reported to the prosecutor’s office. Instructions: Please read the information below carefully before completing this form. 1) Start with general information about the victim: name, contact details, age and any other relevant personal/background information. Please provide a detailed account of what happened (including dates, times, suspect/victim behavior).
2) Identify witnesses who were present during the incident(s), if any; document their accounts as well.
3) Assess possible motives for the crime or incidents (e.g., revenge, jealousy, etc.), as applicable. This assessment should be based on statements from victims and witnesses; police reports; prior history between suspect and victim; and any other available evidence related to possible motives.
4) Obtain a detailed account of any harassing behaviors by suspects including threats made against victims verbally or through written communication such as emails, texts messages, social media posts etc.. Document signs of surveillance by suspects such as apparent knowledge of victims' whereabouts when not expected (visiting homes/places frequented by victims). Document ongoing behavior patterns over time - e.g., repeated unwanted calls/texts/messages etc.. 5) Evaluate risks faced by victims in terms of physical safety – e.g., access to guns owned by suspects; known past criminal behavior involving violence; history of substance abuse issues with either party involved in case; presence of mental health issues with either party involved in case; any prior arrests involving domestic violence committed against victim ;etc.. 6) Assess risk factors concerning emotional harm faced by victims– e.g., extent to which perpetrator has violated trust placed in them-by violating privacy laws – i .e,, accessing medical records without consent ; invading home without consent ; engaging in cyberstalking activities ; making false accusations about victim etc.. 7) Analyze data collected regarding various elements necessary for prosecution under applicable state law – i .e , did suspect knowingly engage in activity intended to cause fear / intimidation ? Has there been sufficient amount of evidence gathered that would establish reasonable suspicion that recently enacted anti stalking laws were violated ? Does your analysis support findings necessary for filing charges under criminal code ? 8 ) Summarize pertinent facts presented on intake form along with recommendations concerning next steps needed : follow up interviews , further investigation , court hearing preparation , referral services offered to help protect legal rights & interests of victim etc... 9 ) Submit completed form & supporting documentation required for successful evaluation & assessment process to persons responsible at prosecutor's office .