CRIME VICTIM PERSPECTIVE ON THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROCESS: BASIS FOR THE CREATION OF VICTIM SERVICE PROGRAMS

This study explored the satisfaction of the crime victims to the criminal justice process as well as the problems they encounter in its operation. To facilitate the study, narrative case analysis was used. The co-researchers of the study were female rape victims in the second district of Oriental Mindoro. Case study was used to examine the crime victims’ experiences with the existing programs provided to them and the enhancement measures for victims of crime at each stage of the proceeding. Data gathered revealed that the co-researchers had a good perspective with the performance of the police as compared to prosecution and court. The common issues with regard to the prosecutors are the lack of sincerity and focus on the case. Likewise, delayed trial and postponement of the hearings are their primary concern with the operation of the court. While crime victims availed victim service programs in different ways, unfortunately, some felt that they are not enough. It is recommended that crime victim services be formulated and strengthened at each stage of the criminal justice process to avoid second victimization.