Anyone can become the victim or witness of crime. These victims and witnesses can find themselves alone and helpless without resources. But in Greene County, the dedicated team at the Victim/Witness Services program is always here to help.
The Victim/Witness Service Program provides advocacy, support, information, and accompaniment to all victims/witnesses throughout criminal proceedings. They act as a liaison between the police, attorneys, the court, and other agencies.
Recently, a familiar member returned to the team, Sarah Penich. Sarah has experience in both the advocacy requirements and management of the grant funding required for the program as she previously served in the position in 2018.
Prior to county employment, Sarah served in the United States Navy from 2000-2004, from there she went on to obtain a degree from Westmoreland Community College. She has worked for the County of Greene as the Veterans Affairs Director, Victim Witness Coordinator under former District Attorney Marge Fox and as Assistant Chief Clerk under the recently elected Board of Commissioners.
Sarah is excited and passionate about returning to a familiar position, “As a prior military (member), I expect the unexpected,” Penich said. “I thrive in that environment because I genuinely want to help and always look for a solution. All of my experiences will positively impact my capability to serve in this capacity.”
The Victim Witness program has an ethical responsibility to uphold the rights of victims. Services that include notifications of various stages of litigation, accompaniment, advocacy, referrals, restitution, preparing victims for court appearances, building rapport and creating a safe atmosphere for vulnerability.
The program makes it easy for victims and witnesses to receive support. A 24/7 phone line is always available. The department assists in private criminal complaints, and provides referrals for protection orders, shelters, counseling, and more.
An additional responsibility of the Victim Witness coordinator is to ensure funding is available for these programs. Three specific grants are required to maintain and fund these services. Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), is federally allocated funds sub-granted through the state. Secondly, Rights and Services Act (RASA) funding, provides financial support, training and technical assistance to county-based victim service agencies to promote the rights and services under Pennsylvania’s Crime Victims Act. Lastly, Victims of Juvenile Offenders (VOJO) grants provides financial support, training, and technical assistance to county-based victim service agencies to promote the rights and services to victims in the juvenile justice system.
The Victim Witness coordinator applies for these funds and must provide quarterly program and fiscal reports to Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) in order to stay in compliance and continue to receive funding.
FMI about Victim/Witness Services, visit https://www.co.greene.pa.us/Department-VictimWitness-Services or phone 724-852-5210.