Victim Advocate
The Cass County Sheriff's Office Victim Service Unit (also referred to as “advocates” or “VSU”) plays a vital role as compassionate volunteers who help people during some of their most difficult moments. The Advocates work closely with the Cass County Sheriff's Office Chaplains.
Our primary focus is providing support to victims and survivors of traumatic events like suicides, natural deaths, homicides, traffic fatalities, natural disasters or house fires. We also assist Law Enforcement with Death Notifications.
During a crisis, volunteer VSU advocates provide several key services such as:
- Immediate on scene emotional support and comfort
- Help victims separate from the scene while maintaining a link to law enforcement and assist with questions and concerns.
- Basic short term crisis intervention
- Help victims and survivors understand what happens next, such as funeral preparations, autopsies, the court system, and offer referrals to relevant community services.
What makes this role especially meaningful is that many advocates have experienced personal tragedy themselves and want to help others through similar situations. They free up police and emergency personnel to focus on their investigative duties while ensuring victims aren't left alone during traumatic events.
In Michigan, advocates receive 20 hours of specialized training through the Michigan Sheriffs' Association, learning about grief stages, communication techniques, and victims' rights. Advocates undergo additional training and meetings throughout the year. The program has been so successful that it received a Presidential Citation for Private Sector Initiatives in 1989.
Additional Information
If you have any questions or would like further information about the Victim Services Unit Advocate Program in Cass County, please contact the Sheriff's Office.