Chapter 6 – Adult Classification

62090.6.4.2 Victim Service Representative

• Each Warden of an institution where BPHBoard of Parole Hearings (formerly Board of Prison Terms) parole eligibility hearings are held will ensure that the institution’s C&PRClassification & Parole Representative is specifically assigned as the Victim Service Representative (VSR). The VSR shall be responsible for ensuring the duties and functions described below are completed by designated staff. The Assistant C&PRClassification & Parole Representative shall be assigned as the back-up VSR to ensure sufficient continuity of services. Procedures established within DOMDepartment Operations Manual Sections 62090.6.4.1 through 62090.6.4.7 shall pertain only to Victims, a Victims Next of Kin, or a Victim Representative, for the purpose of attendance at Lifer Parole Eligibility Hearings only.

• The Warden shall ensure there is an operational procedure for the VSR position. The VSR or designee shall be responsible for the following:

  • Making contact with attendees and answering any questions they may have.

  • Explaining the BPHBoard of Parole Hearings (formerly Board of Prison Terms) process, security screening procedures, required identification documents, and ensuring they received a copy of the BPHBoard of Parole Hearings (formerly Board of Prison Terms) Hearing Handbook.

  • Provide information to the attendee regarding appropriate attire to be worn into the facility. Appropriate attire shall conform to Title 15, CCRCalifornia Code of Regulations Section 3174 (a)(2) and (b)(1)(2)(3)(4).

  • Asking attendees if they have any special needs such as medications, assistive devices or special foods or juice they will need to keep with them in the institution.

  • Suggesting that attendees with medical implants containing metal bring available medical documentation/certification from a clinician identifying the location and type of any medical implant in order to expedite the screening process.

  • Providing attendees with directions to the institution if necessary.

  • Informing attendees that the VSR or designee will be awaiting their arrival.

  • Ensuring all necessary paperwork to process the attendees into the institution has been completed and received.

  • Asking attendees if they have documents or information they will be bringing to the hearing.

  • Escort attendees to a waiting room near the BPHBoard of Parole Hearings (formerly Board of Prison Terms) hearing area that is separate and apart from the inmate, his or her attorney, and any other attendees whose presence may be upsetting to the victim, next of kin, or their representatives.

  • Ensuring the waiting room is supplied with at least tissue, water, note pads, and ink pens or pencils.

  • Be present at the gate at least 10 minutes prior to the arrival time of the attendees in order to greet them and to assist with processing them into the institution.

  • Ensuring the hearing room has appropriate accommodations.

  • Remain with the attendees until the hearing begins and throughout the hearing. Attendees may, if desired, be escorted to a private area after the hearing and be given an opportunity to express their views about the hearing.

  • Escorts attendees back to the entrance building after the hearing and processes them out of the facility.