Special Prosecutions Division
The Special Prosecutions Division (SPD) investigates and prosecutes cases involving domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sex crimes, and human trafficking. The Division includes the Child and Elder Abuse Bureau, Domestic Violence Bureau, Sex Crimes and Humam Trafficking Bureau, and the Victims’ Justice Center, which provides support and assistance to crime victims.
Specially trained professionals, including domestic violence aides, trauma therapists, and child welfare specialists, are available on-site to assist victims. Language assistance is also available.
Victims or witnesses are encouraged to contact their local police department or call the Westchester County District Attorney’s multilingual tips line at (914) 995-TIPS (8477).
The Child Abuse Bureau investigates and prosecutes cases involving the sexual or physical abuse and neglect of children under 17. Assistant District Attorneys are assigned to individual cases and work closely with victims and their families to help them navigate the legal system.
The Elder Abuse Bureau investigates and prosecutes crimes against individuals age 60 or older when the suspect is a family member, someone living with the victim, a caregiver, or someone who targets the victim because of their age. These cases may involve domestic violence or neglect by a family member or caregiver; financial exploitation or theft by a family member, caregiver, or home health aide; and abuse of power of attorney. Assistant District Attorneys working alongside Criminal Investigators, are assigned to individual cases and can respond to victims’ residences to make the legal process more accessible.
If you are a victim of child or elder abuse, or have witnessed a related crime, contact your local police department or call the Westchester County District Attorney’s multilingual tipline (914) 995-TIPS (8477).
The Domestic Violence Bureau investigates and prosecutes crimes of intimate partner violence. Domestic violence can include physical or sexual assault, emotional or verbal abuse, intimidation, stalking, violations of court orders of protection, custody or visitation, and other controlling or threatening behavior.
Specially trained prosecutors and domestic violence aides work closely with victims to help them navigate the criminal justice system, understand court proceedings, develop safety plans, obtain copies of orders of protection, and connect with domestic violence service providers for housing, therapy, and other services. Language assistance is available and a victim’s immigration status is not reported.
If you are a victim of domestic violence or witnessed a related crime, contact your local police department or call the Westchester County District Attorney’s multilingual tipline (914) 995-TIPS (8477).
The Sex Crimes and Human Trafficking Bureau handles the investigation and prosecution of cases of sexual assault involving victims over the age of 17, as well as human trafficking, whether it be labor or sex. The Bureau works closely with law enforcement, our partners within the Westchester Anti-Trafficking Task Force, and connects survivors with resources to support their recovery.
If you believe you are a victim or witness to a crime, call your local police department or call the Westchester County District Attorney’s multilingual tipline (914) 995-TIPS (8477) option 6.
The Victims’ Justice Center (VJC) of the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office provides victims of crimes and their families information and assistance regarding their rights, their safety and resources available to help cope with the emotional, physical, and financial impacts of crime.
VJC staff assist victims and survivors file applications to the New York State Office of Victim Services for reimbursement of fees associated with medical bills, funeral expenses or other financial losses experienced as a result of a crime against them or their families.
The VJC can also make referrals to community organizations or service providers that assist victims with legal matters beyond the scope of the VJC staff and make referrals for counseling (includes remote tele-health) by a VJC trauma therapist at Westchester Jewish Community Services.
The VJC hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Victims’ Justice Center
Elida Lewellyn, Director
(914) 995-3300
VJC has bilingual Spanish-speaking staff. El Centro de Justicia de Víctimas tiene personal bilingüe que habla Español.