Support for burglary victims: An analysis of victim service provider practices

Abstract

Residential burglary is common in the U.S. Despite its financial, safety, and emotional impacts on victims, support services for burglary victims are scarce, and relevant literature is limited. Using data from the 2019 National Survey of Victim Service Providers (n = 1386), this study investigates the relationship between victim service providers' service delivery and their likelihood of serving burglary victims. Logistic regression results indicate that providers offering financial assistance and safety planning are more likely to serve burglary victims, while those offering emotional support are less likely to do so. Additionally, providers that are government agencies, have extensive partnerships and stronger police collaborations are more likely to serve burglary victims, while those whose primary function is victim service and offering 24-h hotlines are less likely. Victim service policies should raise public awareness of financial assistance, expand emotional support, and promote police collaboration in service delivery to burglary victims.