Victim Assistance Unit
Who we are?…The Victim Assistance program is a division of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office. The Victim Assistance Team is a group of volunteers that are trained in crisis intervention to survivors, witnesses and families who have been traumatized by the experience of death, serious injury, violent crime, or natural disaster. What we do and why we are needed?…Following a traumatic event, people often feel helpless, confused and emotionally shocked. After the emergency responders (fire, police, and EMS) conduct their initial investigation and complete their reports, they often have other calls they must attend to. Victim Service response teams can remain with the victims in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy to assist them with temporary support through the first very difficult hours and provide referrals for other assistance. Types of situations we respond to….It is our ultimate goal to have the ability to respond to any situation in which emergency personnel would need our assistance including but not limited to; homicides, suicides/suicidal attempts, natural death, death notifications, fires, child/elder abuse, family violence, sexual Assaults, traffic accidents, general welfare concerns, violent crimes and natural disasters. When are we available?... Victim Services will respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week. How does Victim Assistance Work?...Highly trained, community-based volunteers who are on call will respond to a scene after receiving police or emergency request for assistance.
Shelly James, Director 512-943-1373 email: sjames@wilco.org
Julie Hobbs, Volunteer Coordinator 512-943-1374 email: juliehobbs@wilco.org
Dean Higginbotham, Case Worker 512-943-1375 email: chigginbotham@wilco.org
The Volunteer of the Month for September is
Brenda Shanafelt
Thanks for all you do!
REMINDER Our Monthly meeting will be held on Monday, Oct. 26th at 6:30 PM at the Sheriff's Office.