This year, OYA established a Victim Engagement Program (VEP) to ensure victims’ voices are heard and their needs addressed. As Susana Escobedo, the manager of VEP, explains, a victim-centered perspective ensures that victims are not forgotten in our justice system. “We’re making sure victims’ rights are embedded in our practices and policies,” Susana shared. “It’s about considering victims’ safety, understanding the trauma they’ve experienced, and ensuring they have a meaningful role in the process.”
This commitment extends beyond meeting legal requirements. Karly Bidnick, the Victim Services Coordinator, highlighted that victims don’t choose to engage with the justice system but still have the right to meaningful participation. “Just because a case resolves at the court level doesn’t mean the harm or trauma goes away,” Karly explained. “Our work is about ensuring they have access to information, resources, and support, even in the post-adjudication world.”
In its first year, VEP has focused on building strong foundations. The team established partnerships with key state agencies, such as the Department of Justice’s Crime Victims Compensation Program and the Board of Parole. They are developing a comprehensive training resource toolkit for field staff and raising awareness about crime victims’ rights through presentations and trainings. These efforts have begun to ensure victims are included in the post-adjudication process and have access to trauma-informed, culturally responsive support.
A critical part of this work involves setting clear expectations with victims about their rights and the juvenile justice process. Susana explained this involves validating victims’ feelings while educating them on what the system can and cannot do. “Often, victims are coming from a place of trauma and confusion about what’s possible,” she shared. “Our role is to provide clarity, transparency, and support, empowering them with the knowledge to navigate this system.” By engaging early and maintaining consistent communication, VEP helps manage expectations and ensure victims feel seen and respected, even in difficult circumstances.
One of VEP’s unique aspects is its restorative justice approach. VEP is in the process of developing a responsibility letter bank, as well as identifying victims interested in restorative dialogues during which youth can understand the impact of their actions from their victims’ to share their perspectives. Susana noted, “There are victims who want youth to grow and learn while being held accountable. It’s not an either/or. Effective systems hold space for both needs – addressing the harm to victims and supporting youth in their rehabilitation.”
As we move into 2025, the program’s next steps will focus on expanding these efforts. New initiatives include Field Victim Engagement Teams to provide court support and connect victims with resources. “Early connection with victims and clear communication are critical,” Karly emphasized. “We’re working to ensure victims aren’t left out and can access the transparency and support they need.”
For both Susana and Karly, building this program is about more than systems and policies. It’s about creating something meaningful for victims, youth, and communities alike. “The restorative justice components benefit everyone involved,” Susana said. “What we’re building here is exciting because it’s long overdue and desperately needed.”