At the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), our mission is to treat all victims in a respectful, responsive and compassionate manner. The Victim Services Branch (VSB) plays a vital role in serving victims of crime in the District of Columbia. Specialists in the VSB act as a liaison between the police and victims throughout the investigative process and connect them with supportive resources. Serving as a liaison within the police department, allows Victim Specialists to assist victims with getting necessary documentation from investigators related to property, insurance policies, police reports and referrals for relocation and emergency housing.
Specialists can also support victims and witnesses by facilitating communication and supporting them through the investigative process. While specialists dedicate their time to meeting the victim’s needs, the detectives are able to focus on bringing them justice through the investigation. This partnership between law enforcement and specialists is essential to ensure that victims are able to get the support they need while effectively participating in the criminal justice process.
Members of the Victim Services Branch also facilitate outreach, trainings, and events, for the purpose of educating and empowering the community on Victim’s Rights, supportive services and tools for healing.
Victim Services Branch's Newsletter
About the VSB
The Victim Services Branch (VSB) includes the Family Liaison Specialists Unit (FLSU), Victim Specialists Unit (VSU), and Community Outreach.
- The Family Liaison Specialists Unit provides supportive services to victims of felonious assaults and survivors of homicide victims by collaborating with the Detective and survivor throughout the investigative process. Specialists provide on-going emotional support, case updates, information regarding funeral expenses, referral to grief counseling and other related services.
- The Victim Specialists Unit provides information and support to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other violent crimes. Specialists act as liaisons helping victims navigate the investigative process and connecting them with supportive resources.
- The Victim Services Branch Community Outreach promotes positive relationships between MPD, members of the community, and victims of crime. The team also delivers educational materials through print and social media campaigns to inform the public of interpersonal violence, victim services and resources, and upcoming victim-centered events.
Contact Us
If you or anyone you know would like to speak with a specialist, please call or email us:
Meet the Team
Victim Specialists Unit
Police Headquarters
441 4th Street, NW, Suite 550N
Washington, DC 20001
(202) 715-7361
Email: [email protected]
Family Liaison Specialists Unit
Homicide Branch
101 M Street, SW
Washington, DC 20024
(202) 645-6363
Email: [email protected]
Stay Informed
MPD has also created a confidential Google Group to enhance support for survivors/victims and improve communication with MPD and the community. This group provides information on events and supportive services throughout the community. If you would like to join, please send an email to the Official MPD Victim Services Branch Community Group at [email protected].