Victim Services is the extended compassionate arm of the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office (SJCSO).  Its purpose is to ensure that no victim of crime or traumatic incident remains alone or uninformed.

The SJCSO Victim Services Unit, addresses the needs of crime victims regardless of ethnicity, religion, age, gender, financial or community standing.  It assists victims, witnesses, and their families and friends following a crime or traumatic incident. 

Committed volunteers serve as victim advocates, or VAPs (victim advocacy program).   VAPs are available 24 hours a day to provide crisis intervention when deputies request their presence at a critical incident.   These caring advocates are equipped to deal with trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse or death notifications.  While on scene they offer comfort, assistance to the deputies, and referrals to community resources.   In addition, the Victim Services Unit at the SJCSO provides support to victims during ongoing investigations of their cases or judicial system procedures.

We always welcome new volunteers to our victim advocacy program!   A training is provided in so that VAPs can be as prepared as possible to meet the challenges of helping a victim of crime or tragedy.   Qualities needed are a compassion for others, strong interpersonal skills and a desire to serve our community through the SJCSO.

To become a victim advocate,  please click here to download an application.  Or contact the:

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For additional information, please contact the Community Relations Division at (505) 334-6107.