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Needs of Pacific Peoples When They are Victims of Crime

NCJ Number
210580
Author(s)
Ana Hau'alofa'ia Koloto Dr.
Date Published
May 2003
Length
135 pages
Annotation
This New Zealand study obtained information about crime victims among the six main Pacific ethnic groups in order to determine the use and appropriateness of informal and formal support services for Pacific crime victims.
Abstract
The study focused on victims of violence outside the home, family violence, and property crimes. Of particular concern was the identification of victims' health needs and appropriate measures for meeting those needs, as well as the identification of appropriate victim support mechanisms in the criminal justice system. A team of researchers from each of the six main Pacific ethnic groups was trained to conduct the interviews. The survey consisted of individual interviews with 90 (54 females and 36 males) Pacific people who ranged in age from 16 to 84. Interviews determined the nature of the crime, its impact, needs that stemmed from the crime, the use of support services, and victims' experiences in the criminal justice system. Pacific males were more likely to be victims of violence outside the home, while females were more likely to be victims of family violence. Property offenses were equally distributed between theft from the home and theft of or from a motor vehicle. Physical injuries were more likely to be experienced by victims of violence and family violence; they were also likely to be emotionally and spiritually affected by the crime. The crime's social impact was more pronounced in victims of family violence. Adverse financial effects from victimizations were also indicated. Overall, the following areas of victim need were identified: health care and protection, financial aid, adverse cultural and social impact, emotional and spiritual support, and information and feedback from police. Extensive tables, 17 references, and appended interview schedule