Beyond the Break-In: Examining Victim Services for Burglary Victims

• In Event: Strategies and Challenges in Providing Support to Victims

Abstract

Residential burglary is an impactful crime to its victims, causing them significant financial, safety, and emotional distress. However, current victim services for burglary victims are minimal. This project examines victim service providers (VSPs), and their characteristics associated with the likelihood of them serving burglary victims. Data from the 2019 National Survey of Victim Service Providers were analyzed on three key direct services: financial assistance, safety planning, and emotional support. Results showed that VSPs with the resources and ability to provide financial assistance were over three times more likely to serve burglary victims. At the same time, emotional support was negatively associated with service delivery to burglary victims. This project also explores other organizational characteristics: types and sizes of VSPs, accessibility for victims, and partnerships with other criminal justice sectors. The findings address service gaps and call for efforts to provide essential support for burglary victims in their recovery journeys.

Author

• Ko-Hsin Hsu, Kutztown University