The Department of Juvenile Services provides direct assistance to victims of juvenile crime. Each Region provides victim services which serve as a vital link to the juvenile court system and to ensure the consideration of the emotional, physical, and financial needs of the victim.
Often youth are required to directly reimburse the victim for any monetary loss incurred as a result of their delinquent acts. In 1993, the Department implemented a computerized state-wide tracking system to monitor restitution paid by adjudicated youth and expedite disbursement to victims. Each region has a restitution unit responsible for coordinating this service and ensuring that the information in the database is updated and accurate. In 1988, the Maryland General Assembly enacted the Rights of Victim or Witness of Delinquent Act. This Act provides guidelines for agencies within the juvenile justice system on how to treat a victim or witness of a delinquent act.
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