Press release from Santa Fe College

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) awarded the Santa Fe College Police Department (SFPD) its Leadership in Victim Services Award. The SFPD was recognized at a ceremony Tuesday evening during the IACP’s annual conference in San Diego. The college was honored for placing individuals at the center of efforts with partnerships, performance monitoring tools, holistic support, and a full-time victim advocate.

The Santa Fe College Police Department is the only college in the 28-member Florida College System to have a victim advocate. Grant-funded by the Department of Justice, the position works within the SFPD to assist individuals on or off campus. For example, the advocate can review police reports without requiring the victim to reiterate traumatic details.

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“The Santa Fe College Police Department is a true example of leadership in the policing profession,” IACP President, Chief John Letteney, said.

With over 33,000 members in 170 countries, the IACP is the world’s largest and most influential professional association for police leaders. The IACP Leadership in Victim Services Award acknowledges law enforcement agencies that demonstrate innovative approaches to meeting the needs of crime victims.

This award recognizes SFPD’s dedication to innovation and leadership in the victim service community, prioritizing individuals above all else. SFPD’s Victim Advocate Specialist has assisted 36 people and provided approximately 150 services in the last four quarters. Those impacted by crime remain enrolled at Santa Fe College after the incident and are connected to other support services to improve chances for success.