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Lexington Police outlines victim advocacy services, outreach and bilingual support
Summary
Lexington Police Department’s victim‑advocate staff described outreach services, Marcy’s Law notification rights, and a bilingual advocacy role; the unit helps victims navigate court notifications, referrals, and community resources.
Victim‑advocate staff from the Lexington Police Department briefed hosts about the department’s advocacy services for survivors of violent crime and their families, including bilingual support for Spanish‑speaking residents.
Advocates described a mix of proactive outreach and on‑demand assistance: the unit contacts survivors after incidents, explains their rights (including notification rights under Marcy’s Law), registers victims with notification services such as VINE, helps identify next steps in prosecution, and connects survivors to counseling, shelter, and other community resources. Staff emphasized coordination with other agencies — the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, county advocates, and community groups — to streamline assistance from arrest through prosecution and post‑incident support.
Bilingual advocacy was highlighted as a priority. Bilingual advocate Marisol Contreras (hired 2022) explained that providing explanations and follow‑up in Spanish reduces barriers to reporting and helps families understand investigative and court procedures. The unit runs a monthly survivor support group for families of homicide victims (Surviving Onward Sessions — SOS) that offers fellowship, resource speakers and referral partners.
How to access services: advocates said they proactively reach many victims after a police response, but survivors can also call the department’s main line and ask for victim services (phone number provided on department materials). Staff urged survivors and family members to use the service for questions about court dates, safety planning, Victim Notification (VINE) registration and referrals.
Officials noted the victim‑advocate function is intended to be trauma‑informed and survivor‑centered, with detectives and advocates coordinating closely on investigations involving domestic violence, crimes against children and other violent offenses. The unit also supports victims who continue to have contact with the department even after the active investigation has ended.
