Victim/Witness Services
The District Attorney’s Office employs a full-time Victim/Witness Advocate, who is the main point of contact for any questions or concerns a victim or witness of a crime may have. The Victim/Witness Advocate can provide information on upcoming court dates, explain what victims and witnesses can expect throughout the criminal process, and assist individuals in obtaining available services.
Victim/Witness Advocate: Denise Drake
Assistant Victim/Witness Advocate: Kathleen Dronebarger
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In Pennsylvania, victims have numerous rights throughout the criminal process. For example, victims have the right to be informed about court events, to receive assistance obtaining services and compensation, to be accompanied to court proceedings, and to offer input on sentencing and parole decisions.
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Additional Resources
Office of the Victim Advocate (OVA)
OVA provides crime victims with victim-centered services throughout the post-sentencing process. Victims can register with OVA to get notification and provide input when offenders are being considered for release back into the community.
1101 South Front Street
Suite 5200
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17104
https://www.ova.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx
Crime Victims Council of the Lehigh Valley (CVC)
CVC is a non-profit organization that provides support and services to crime victims and their families. All programs offered by CVC, which include counseling, protective services, advocacy, and referrals, are free and confidential.
24 Hour Hotline: (610) 437-6611
Victims Compensation Assistance Program
This organization provides compensation to eligible crime victims for expenses such as out-of-pocket medical costs, counseling, lost wages, and funeral costs.
https://pcv.pccd.pa.gov/available-services/Pages/Victims-Compensation.aspx
Pennsylvania Statewide Automatic Victim Information and Notification Service (PA SAVIN)
PA SAVIN is a free service that provides up-to-date information concerning the custody status of inmates. Victims and community members can track the custody status of incarcerated offenders and register for notifications by phone, email, and/or text message when that status changes.
Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley
Turning Point provides a safe place for domestic violence victims and their children. Services include an emergency safe house, counseling, legal advocacy, medical advocacy, and educational programs.
24 Hour Hotline: (610) 437-3369
(610) 797-0530 (Allentown)
(610) 868-5454 (Bethlehem)
https://www.turningpointlv.org
Area Agency on Aging
The Agency provides services and programs for Northampton County residents over the age of 60. The Agency also provides protective services for victims of elder abuse and neglect.
2801 Emrick Boulevard
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18021
24 Hour Hotline (610) 252-9060
https://www.northamptoncounty.org/HS/AGING
211.org
Comprehensive source of locally curated social services. Connects individuals with needed services, including crisis, food, health, housing, and employment services. Accessible in 180 languages, completely confidential, and available 24/7/365.
Phone: 211
Website: http://211.org/