The Community Services Specialist (CSS) attempts to make contact with designated victims to provide emotional support, assist with securing resources, safety planning, provide guidance throughout the court process and partner with other community agencies to ensure access to a network of available information and resources. Additionally the CSS will be an active presence in the community to help educate and stay aware of the needs of our area and to keep an open line of communication between the Frankfort Police Department (FPD) and other valuable resources and agencies.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assist the FPD in providing a supportive, empathetic and non-discriminative atmosphere for all Victims
• Provide FPD officers and staff with an updated Resource Guide and be available to offer support in accessing resources
• Provide FPD officers with Resource information that can be distributed in the community
• Collecting data which assesses the needs of our community, development and implementation of new programs, such as the Angel Program, that could benefit the community and a need it is facing.
• Assist on the scene or at the hospital with cases that require additional support and immediate advocacy
• Foster community connections, strengthening bonds between FPD and other community agencies
• Development of trainings or educational materials, for both the community and FPD, which address Victim needs Day to Day Responsibilities
• Printing and reviewing JC-3's and assigned cases, as well as working with the assigned Officers to assure continuity of care to the Victims
• Contacting Victims in a timely manner after reports have been assigned
• Attending Court with Victims as needed/requested
• Networking with community resources, attending any community meetings that promote the FPD partnerships within the community
• Assessing specific needs of the community and working to build, implement and promote programs which target those needs
• Other duties as assigned by the Chief of Police or their designee.

ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES

• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality with sensitive information.
• Should be able to communicate effectively with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Able to maintain a high degree of sensitivity, tact and diplomacy during stressful situations.
• Understanding of criminal and juvenile justice system.
• Awareness of community resources and community organizations.
• Knowledge of victims' rights within the criminal justice system.
• Knowledge of safety planning for victims of crime.
• Understanding of restraining order process and procedures.
• Ability to prepare accurate reports and maintain records and documents.