WRPD hires first victim advocate

New victim advocate Shanavia Rogers says she hopes her new role will help victims feel safe enough to trust her with their trauma and share their experiences.  

WARNER ROBINS, GEORGIA (41NBC/WMGT)- The Warner Robins police department is adding a new resource for crime victims. WRPD has hired its first-ever victim advocate, a position designed to help victims navigate the criminal justice process, connect with resources, and better understand their rights.  

“We saw a need in being able to bridge the gap, because the DA’S office has victim advocates, and most police departments in our area do not. So, we wanted to bridge the gap, to be able to have communication better with the victim in-between the investigative process and it going to the district attorney’s office,” said Lieutenant Clark.   

New victim advocate Shanavia Rogers says she hopes her new role will help victims feel safe enough to trust her with their trauma and share their experiences.  

“I want them to know that I am here for them emotionally, and to offer support,” said Rogers.  

Lieutenant Justin Clark with the Warner Robins Police department says officers can’t always be there for victims throughout the investigation process—creating a need for additional support and resources. 

“A lot of the time there out on the road working, trying to find witnesses things like that. This way with an advocate, we can have somebody who’s here, 9-5, Monday thru Friday, and available for them,” said Clark.   

Rogers says her goal in her first year is to give victims the support they need as they navigate the investigation process. 

“I hope victims feel that that can come here and feel they have someone to talk to, and there just not another victim. That we’re actually here to listen, support them and offer care,” said Rogers. 

And Lieutenant Clark says the goal is simple: making sure victims know they’re not alone. 

The Warner Robins Police Department says it plans to hire more victim advocates in the future.