The Alexandria Victim-Witness Assistance Program was created to support crime victims and witnesses by helping them navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. The program was established in response to the need for victim-centered services that reduce the trauma of victimization, ensure victims are informed of their rights, and provide crucial emotional and practical support.

Key reasons for its creation include:

• Victim Rights & Advocacy: Ensuring victims receive the rights and protections they are entitled to under the law.
• Support Through the Legal Process: Helping victims understand court procedures, providing court accompaniment, and facilitating communication with prosecutors.
• Crisis Intervention & Assistance: Offering emotional support, referrals to social services, and assistance with financial compensation programs for crime-related expenses.
• Community Safety & Engagement: Encouraging victim participation in the justice process to hold offenders accountable and enhance public safety.

The Commonwealth Attorney’s Office established this program to provide a structured and compassionate response to victims and witnesses, ensuring they receive the necessary support and are not overlooked in the legal process. The Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) consists of four Victim-Witness Specialists and one Victim-Witness Assistance Program Coordinator. The subsidiary program, VSTOP, was created to specifically assist with domestic violence cases within the city of Alexandria.

 Both the VWAP and VSTOP programs are located at the Alexandria Courthouse, 520 King Street, Suite 301. Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For emergencies, please contact 911 or call the Domestic Violence Hotline or Sexual Assault Hotline for immediate assistance.

The Virginia (VSTOP) Program was established in Alexandria and throughout Virginia to strengthen the state’s response to domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and other violent crimes against women. Created under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the program enhances victim services, law enforcement training, and prosecution efforts in cases involving domestic and sexual violence.

In Alexandria, the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with local domestic violence and sexual assault organizations and law enforcement agencies, works to enhance victim advocacy programs, streamline case management, and ensure survivors receive comprehensive support. This coordinated effort is essential in advancing justice, safety, and empowerment for victims within the community.

The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney has a dedicated Domestic Violence Intervention Specialist to assist with these matters. If you are a victim or survivor of domestic abuse, intimate partner violence, or sexual assault, please contact VSTOP at (703) 746-4100 for assistance.

The Alexandria Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP), part of the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, provides comprehensive support services in both English and Spanish, including:

• Contacting victims before court dates to answer questions about the legal process when an arrest is made.
• Offering outreach to victims in cases where no arrest is made, including robbery, burglary, felonious assault, abduction, homicide, grand larceny auto, stalking, carjacking, and more.
• Ensuring victims have a voice throughout the criminal justice process.
• Referring victims to social service agencies for emergency financial, medical, or psychological assistance.
• Assisting victims with filing for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund for reimbursement of medical bills, counseling expenses, and other costs.
• Arranging pre-trial meetings between victims and prosecutors, including courtroom tours.
• Providing court accompaniment for victims and their families on the day of hearings.
• Assisting victims with victim impact statements upon request.
• Informing victims of sentencing outcomes and providing parole input or Department of Corrections notification forms.
• Helping victims retrieve property held as evidence.
• Assisting with the collection of overdue restitution.
• Referring victims to local support groups.
• Responding to business robberies to provide crisis intervention and debriefing for employees.

Confidentiality and Privacy Protection

As part of a systems-based prosecution office, the Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) and VSTOP are not bound by the same confidentiality standards typically associated with other victim support services. However, we are committed to ensuring that your privacy is respected and protected throughout the legal process.

While certain information may be shared within the legal system to assist with the prosecution of a case, we take all necessary precautions to safeguard your personal information. Our team is trained to handle sensitive information with discretion, and we work closely with law enforcement and legal professionals to minimize any unnecessary disclosure of your details.

If you have concerns about privacy or confidentiality, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office for more information on how we can address your needs.

The Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) provides support to crime victims residing in the City of Alexandria. Victims of the following crimes may be eligible for services under Va. Code Ann. § 19.2-11.01:

• Assault and Battery
• Malicious Wounding
• Felony Hit and Run
• Homicide
• Sexual Assault and Sexual Battery (Certain Offenses)
• Child Physical and Sexual Abuse (Certain Offenses)
• Domestic Violence
• Stalking
• Human Trafficking
• Felony Elder Abuse
• Bias Crimes
• Robbery
• Violation of a Protective Order

For more information or assistance, please contact the Alexandria Victim-Witness Assistance Program at (703-746-4100).

Virginia law affords certain rights to crime victims pursuant to the Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act, Va. Code Ann. §§19.2-11.01, et seq., including:

• The right to be informed
• The right to confidentiality
• The right to notice of court dates and other court-related assistance
• The right to notice of defendant or prisoner status
• The right to provide input in the process
• The right to safety
• The right to financial assistance

• The right to post trial assistance and other notices

   

1. Understand Your Legal Rights:
   As a victim of crime, you are entitled to certain legal rights under the law, including the right to be informed, present, and heard throughout the criminal justice process. Review the Victims' Rights information provided by the Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) or VSTOP to better understand what you are entitled to.
2. Notify Authorities of Your Status as a Victim:
   Inform law enforcement or the prosecutor's office that you are a victim of the crime. This ensures that your rights are recognized, and you can begin receiving assistance and protection as a victim in the case.
3. Request Information About the Case:
   You have the right to be informed about case progress, including key hearings, sentencing, and any developments. Contact the VWAP or VSTOP to request updates, and ask about your right to participate in court proceedings.
4. Participate in Victim Impact Statements:
   Victims have the right to submit a victim impact statement to express how the crime has affected their life. If you wish to provide a statement, contact your VWAP or VSTOP representative to assist you in preparing and submitting this document.
5. Seek Protective Orders (if applicable):
   If you are in danger of further harm, you have the right to seek a protective order (also known as a restraining order). The VWAP can assist you in filing for a protective order and explain the process.
6. Request Restitution:
   You are entitled to seek restitution for financial losses related to the crime (e.g., medical bills, lost wages). Ask your VWAP or VSTOP advocate to help you navigate the restitution process and ensure that you are compensated.
7. Exercise Your Right to Be Present at Court Hearings:
   Victims have the right to attend court hearings related to the case. Contact the VWAP or VSTOP to discuss court accompaniment services if you need support during hearings or trials.
8. Provide Input on Parole or Sentencing Decisions:
   Victims have the right to provide input on sentencing or parole decisions. Ensure you are informed about upcoming hearings where you may be able to offer your views and seek guidance from VWAP or VSTOP about how to participate.
9. Access Counseling and Support Services:
   Exercise your right to receive counseling or support services. The VWAP or VSTOP can help you connect with counseling services or provide referrals to other organizations for emotional and psychological support.
10. File a Complaint or Appeal if Rights Are Violated:
    If you feel that your rights have been violated, you have the right to file a complaint. Contact VWAP or VSTOP to understand the process of reporting violations and advocating for your rights.

• Call 911 Immediately:
  If you are in immediate danger, the first step is to call 911. Emergency responders will provide immediate assistance, including law enforcement and medical help if needed.

• Contact the Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault Hotline:
  If you are experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, and need immediate support or guidance, contact the relevant hotline:

  Domestic Violence Hotline: 703.746.4911

  Sexual Assault Hotline: 703.683.7273

• Seek Shelter or Safe Space:
  If possible, move to a safe location away from the threat. If you’re not in immediate danger but need help, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, or a local shelter.
• Preserve Evidence:
  If you are a victim of a crime, try to preserve any evidence that may assist in the investigation, such as photographs of injuries, threatening messages, or physical evidence.
• Notify the Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) or VSTOP:
  Once the immediate threat has passed, contact VWAP or VSTOP at (703) 746-4100 for support, legal guidance, and assistance with navigating the criminal justice process. They can provide counseling, court accompaniment, and referrals to other services.
• Document Everything:
  Keep detailed notes of any incidents, including dates, times, and descriptions of what occurred. This documentation can be helpful when working with law enforcement or legal professionals.

1.  Who is eligible for VWAP and VSTOP services?

   Both programs are available to victims of various crimes, including domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, robbery, homicide, and more. Eligibility may depend on the type of crime and whether the victim resides in Alexandria. For more specific eligibility criteria, please contact VWAP or VSTOP directly.

2.  How do I get help from VWAP or VSTOP?

   You can contact the VWAP or VSTOP by calling (703) 746-4100 during office hours, Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you need urgent assistance, you can also call the Domestic Violence Hotline or Sexual Assault Hotline.

3. What should I do if I am in immediate danger?

   If you are in immediate danger, call 911. For non-emergencies, you can reach out to VWAP or VSTOP for support. Additionally, hotlines are available for immediate crisis assistance, such as the Domestic Violence Hotline or Sexual Assault Hotline.

4.  Can VWAP and VSTOP protect my confidentiality?

   Because VWAP and VSTOP are part of a systems-based prosecution office, they are not subject to the same confidentiality standards as private organizations. However, your privacy is protected during the legal process, and all information is shared only when necessary for the prosecution of the case. For more details, please contact VWAP or VSTOP.

5.  How can I file a victim impact statement?

   If you wish to submit a victim impact statement to express how the crime has affected you, VWAP and VSTOP can help guide you through the process. You can contact them to receive assistance in writing and submitting the statement to the court.

6.  What if I need counseling or other support services?

   VWAP and VSTOP can connect you with counseling services, legal assistance, or community-based support groups. If you need emotional support or therapy, they will provide you with referrals to organizations that specialize in helping victims of crime.

7.  How do I request restitution or compensation?

   If you are eligible for restitution or compensation, VWAP and VSTOP can help you navigate the process. They can assist with completing forms, submitting claims, and following up to ensure that you are compensated for expenses like medical bills or lost wages.

8. What are my rights as a victim in the criminal justice system?

   As a victim, you have the right to be informed, present, and heard throughout the criminal justice process. You also have the right to request restitution, seek a protective order, and submit a victim impact statement. For a full overview of your rights, contact VWAP or VSTOP for more information.

9. Can I Volunteer?

   Yes, volunteering opportunities may be available through the Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) and VSTOP programs. To inquire about available volunteer opportunities, please reach out to Ashley Milanes, Director of Special Programs, directly at (703) 746-4100 or ashley.milanes@alexandriava.gov. You will be provided with information on the types of volunteer roles, such as administrative support, victim assistance, and more. To apply, you will be asked to complete an application form, which will request details about your background, your interest in victim advocacy, and any relevant experience.

10. Are Services Provided in Other Languages?

    Yes, the Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) and VSTOP offer services in multiple languages to ensure that all victims and witnesses can fully understand the legal process and receive the support they need. We have specialists who speak Spanish and Amharic, and we also provide language services for any other dialects as needed. These services are designed to help ensure clear communication and address any concerns that may arise during the legal process.

    If you need assistance in a language other than English, please let us know, and we will make arrangements to provide the support you need.

11. Are Services Provided for Individuals with Physical or Other Disabilities?

    Yes, the Victim-Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) and VSTOP are committed to ensuring that all victims, including those with physical or other disabilities, receive the support they need. We provide accommodations to help individuals access services and participate fully in the legal process. This includes accessible meeting spaces, assistance with transportation, and any other necessary accommodations to ensure clear communication and accessibility.

    If you have specific needs related to a disability, please let us know so that we can make the appropriate arrangements to assist you.