Programs

Project Lifesaver

A search and rescue program for people who are prone to wandering because of a cognitive condition.

Project Lifesaver is run internationally by public safety agencies. Its mission is a timely response that saves lives and reduces injury for adults and children who wander.

Who qualifies

• King William County resident
• Has a full-time caregiver
• Is not allowed to operate a motor vehicle
• Has a physician's diagnosis of a cognitive disorder that warrants participation
• Is prone to life-threatening wandering

• Project Lifesaver application form

Questions about the program: call the office at 804-769-0999.

School Resource Officers

Four deputies serve as School Resource Officers, one each at the high, middle, primary, and elementary schools. They act as the liaison between the schools and the Sheriff's Office and help provide a safe learning environment.

D.A.R.E.

Drug Abuse Resistance Education has been part of King William County Schools since 1986. The Sheriff's Office has two certified D.A.R.E. officers, Sgt. J. Goodman and Deputy M. Anthony.

• 5th grade: a 10-week program in the fall semester
• Kindergarten: a 6-week D.A.R.E. Safety Training in the spring
• 2nd grade: a special curriculum, offered since 2014

D.A.R.E. was developed in 1983 by the Los Angeles Police Department with the Los Angeles Unified School District. It is now taught in all 50 states and several other countries. The program is positive and substantive and does not rely on scare tactics. More at dare.org.

Victim / Witness Program

The King William Victim/Witness Assistance Program helps crime victims and witnesses who are involved in the criminal justice system. It is run by the Sheriff's Office together with the Commonwealth's Attorney. Its goals are fair and compassionate treatment, an explanation of the criminal justice process, and information about available services.

When to call

• You need the status of your case
• You want court procedures explained, or a tour of the courtroom before you testify
• You need to verify your court date, or have questions about your role as a witness
• You need help with your employer about a court appearance
• You need a referral for emergency medical, psychological, or financial help
• You want help preparing a Victim Impact Statement
• You have questions about the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund, or need help filing a claim
• You are not receiving court-ordered restitution
• You need to report a change of address or phone number
• You want to know when you can recover personal property held as evidence
• You want to be notified of a convicted prisoner's release

Tips on testifying

• Be prepared. Recall what happened and picture the scene. Do not memorize your testimony; tell it in your own words.
• Be courteous. Stay calm. Your behavior affects your credibility.
• Tell the truth. Do not try to work out whether an answer helps or hurts. If you do not know, say so.
• Speak clearly and loudly. Everyone must be able to hear you.
• Answer only the question asked. If you do not understand a question, ask for an explanation. Do not volunteer information, and stop right away if the judge interrupts or an attorney objects.
• Be prepared to wait. You may occasionally be asked to stay nearby.

Resources

• Virginia Victim Fund
• Virginia Victim Assistance Network
• Attorney General's Address Confidentiality Program

To receive your rights under Virginia's Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act, you may need to take specific steps. Ask the Victim/Witness Program for the Informational Guide to Virginia's Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act.

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