What is Victim/Offender Dialogue?

• Victim/Offender Dialogue (VOD) is a victim-centered, confidential meeting between a victim/survivor and the offender who committed the crime against them, or in some cases, against their immediate family member.
• The experience of interacting with the offender in a safe setting provides the victim/survivor a full voice to express the pain and trauma they have endured.
• The objective is for the victim/survivor to be heard and to gain answers and information only the offender can provide.
• When offenders listen and understand the complexity of feelings about the harm they caused and take responsibility, they can better grasp the devastating effects of their actions.
• The process is not about forgiveness, compromise, or reconciliation. While forgiveness may occur, that decision is left entirely to the victim/survivor.

How Does the VOD Process Work?

1. A victim/survivor initiates a VOD request through the DAC Victim Support Services. If staff recommendations are favorable and the offender agrees, the VOD is assigned to a trained facilitator.
2. The facilitator meets regularly (usually monthly) with the victim/survivor and the offender separately over several months.
3. The VOD process is voluntary, and any participant may choose to stop at any time. Participation in preparation does not guarantee a dialogue will occur.
4. When the facilitator and participants are ready, a VOD meeting is scheduled at the facility where the offender is located.

How Can I Participate in VOD?

• The victim/survivor must initiate the process by calling, writing, or emailing the Department of Adult Correction's Victim Support Services.
• Offenders cannot initiate a VOD.

Is Participation Voluntary?

• Any participant may decide to discontinue the VOD process at any time.
• Offenders rarely choose to stop the process once they have agreed to participate. However, victims/survivors sometimes process their feelings during the preparation phase and determine they no longer need to move forward

Will VOD Participation Impact My Sentence or Parole?

• No. Participation does not affect an offender's sentence, parole, or any other status of incarceration.
• Offenders receive no tangible benefits or special privileges for participating in a VOD.