The history of victimology.

Criminal Case: The Murder of Kitty Genovese

The murder of Kitty Genovese in 1964 is often cited as one of the events that helped to launch the field of victimology. Genovese was stabbed to death in Queens, New York, while 38 people watched and did nothing. The case sparked outrage and debate about the role of bystanders in crime and the need to provide support to victims.

Impact of the Case on Legislation and Victimology

The murder of Kitty Genovese had a significant impact on legislation and the evolution of victimology. In the wake of the case, many states passed laws that required bystanders to report crimes. These laws, known as "Good Samaritan" laws, are designed to encourage people to help victims and prevent crimes from happening.

The case also led to a greater focus on the needs of crime victims in the criminal justice system. Victimologists began to study the impact of crime on victims and to develop strategies to help victims recover.

Elevation of the Status of Victims

The passage of Good Samaritan laws and other victim-oriented legislation has helped to elevate the status of victims in the American criminal justice system. Victims now have more rights and more access to support services than ever before.

For example, victims now have the right to be informed of the status of their case and to be present at important court proceedings. Victims also have the right to be compensated for their losses and to receive restitution from offenders.

Highlighting the Victim Perspective

The murder of Kitty Genovese also helped to highlight the victim perspective in a way that had not been done before. The case showed that crime is not just a violation of the law, but also a violation of the victim's person.

Victimologists have continued to raise awareness of the victim perspective in the criminal justice system. They have argued that victims should be central to the criminal justice process and that their needs should be taken into account when making decisions about cases.

Positive Changes in Support for Victims

In recent years, there have been a number of positive changes in terms of support for victims in the criminal justice system. For example, many states have established victim compensation programs to help victims with their financial losses. Additionally, there are now a number of victim advocacy organizations that provide support and services to victims.

Recommendation to Address a Need

One need that still exists to support victims in the criminal justice system is to improve the coordination between different agencies and organizations that provide services to victims. Victims often have to navigate a complex system of services, which can be difficult and frustrating.

One way to address this need is to establish victim assistance centers. These centers would provide a one-stop shop for victims to access the services they need. Victim assistance centers would also be able to coordinate the delivery of services to ensure that victims are getting the support they need to recover.

This recommendation would help victims by making it easier for them to access the services they need and by improving the coordination of services.