Victim/Witness Advocate
Levolia Rhodes
843-863-5200 x 340
lrhodes@cityofgoosecreek.com

 Services Rendered

Information
Comprehensive explanation of services provided by various agencies for victims/witnesses of crime, to included restitution.

Referrals
Recommending assistance from sources that are available.

Emotional Support
Providing moral support to the victim during the aftermath of a crime.

Personal Advocacy
Acting on behalf of victims or witnesses to ensure that they receive appropriate assistance from service agencies and the Criminal Justice System.

Victim Compensation
Assist victims of violent crimes in completing the appropriate forms for authorized compensation from the State Office of Victims Assistance.

“Victim” as defined by the SC State Code of Laws, Title 16, is a person who suffers direct or threatened physical, emotional or financial harm as the result of the commission of a crime.

“Witness” is defined as any person who has been, or is expected to be summoned to testify for either the prosecution or defense, or who by reason of having relevant information, is likely to be called as a witness by the prosecution or defense, whether or not any action or proceeding has yet been commenced.

Victim’s Bill of Rights

Victims and witnesses of crime are afforded the following rights under South Carolina Law, Section 16-3-1530:
A right to be treated with dignity and compassion.
A right to protection from intimidation and harm
A right to be informed concerning the Criminal Justice Process.
A right to preservation of property and employment.
A right to Due Process in Criminal Court Proceedings.

Victims/Witnesses who are very young, handicapped, or have special needs, have a right to special recognition and attention by all Criminal Justice, Medical and Social Service Agents.

The victim advocate is available to provide training to groups ranging from school children and civic groups to businesses and corporations. Training requests can be made by contacting the victim advocate.

Links of Interest

http://ovc.ncjrs.org/findvictimservices
www.hotline@awod.com
www.charleston.net/org/mysister/
www.govoepp.state.sc.us/sova
www.carecenters.org
www.people-against-rape.org
www.scvan.org

Information/Referral Phone Numbers: