Contact: Chris Simonsmeier, (360) 397-2201 ext. 4833
Victim Offender Meeting program (VOM )provides the opportunity for young offenders to take personal responsibility for the harms they have caused to victims and the community. This personal accountability often happens in a face to face meeting between victims and offenders. The meeting is held in a safe and respectful setting with the assistance of a trained facilitator. The focus is on a fair and reasonable resolution to the crime that meaningfully addresses the harms done to the victim. These resolutions help victims to move forward with their lives with the sense that the crime has been dealt with in a way that addresses the harms done to them. Victim Offender Meetings also enable offenders to be accountable for their actions in a manner that encourages and strengthens their ability to be responsible, contributing members of the community.
When a meeting between a victim and offender is not possible, the VOM program uses other program options focused on working toward the most restorative outcome possible for both the victim and the offender. The focus of all VOM processes remains: meaningful offender accountability, acknowledging the harm done to the victim, addressing victim needs and integrating juveniles into the community as productive citizens.
VOM In-depth Information
- What is a Victim Offender Meeting (PDF - 12K)
