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The Pinecrest Police Department handles thousands of calls for service each year. Some calls involve victimized persons of domestic violence, theft and burglary, to name a few.
Often, these individuals require additional assistance beyond the initial call in the days, weeks and sometimes months following the incident. Victims who need an advocate to assist them and their families during this time may reach out to our Victim Services Coordinator (VSC), Leah Vivancos, who has excelled in this role for nearly a decade and has done so with love and compassion.
Before serving as the city’s VSC, Leah Vivancos worked as a Dispatcher for five years and then as a Records Clerk for another five years. She assisted countless residents during that time. She understands that victims need additional support and guidance after the initial police response. Her motivation to become a victim advocate was also personal. When asked, she cited some of her personal experiences dealing with trauma, long-term health concerns and the unexpected loss of loved ones as her reasons for serving. As the VSC, she hopes to support victims of crimes, reduce their stress, and encourage victims’ cooperation.
Leah reviews all case reports and reaches out to victims to let them know she’s ready to help. When requested, she meets with individuals and examines what they can expect next in the legal process. She assists with injunctions for protection orders and referrals to emergency shelters. A big part of her job involves providing emotional support as needed.
When asked about her most significant victories at work, she paused for a moment before replying, “My biggest victories are those I can’t talk about.” Her response was a reminder of how sensitive and impactful her work truly is.
According to Leah, being an effective VSC requires “Time, dedication, patience, and the desire to help people.” She explained that all survivor cases are unique. She went on to say that resiliency varies from person to person. Hence, some of her supportive counseling with victims includes talking about and practicing self-care. She knows how stressful traumatic events can be and encourages victims not to lose track of themselves during this process.
Managing stress is an integral part of her job. She offsets her life’s pressures by traveling, talking with friends, and spending time with her daughter. She also speaks with other regional advocates for support and guidance when needed.
Not everyone considers themself a victim after a crime; however, almost everyone has questions or doubts after being victimized. For those individuals, having someone to talk to after the police leave is essential. A VSC, like Leah, offers emotional support, resources, and important information throughout the process. If you or someone you know has been victimized or is struggling with any issue and would like to speak to Ms. Vivancos, you can reach her at 786-457-8719. She is also available via email at lvivancos@pinecrest-fl.gov.
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