
Since posting the job opening last November, the liaison position intended to help with domestic violence cases in Newport News remains vacant.
The new position reports to a police sergeant and the salary range for the position is $46,883.55 to $80,758.48, officials said.
It’s unclear how many applicants have applied for the position or if the city has narrowed down candidates.
The city’s job portal no longer lists the position.
MPO Brandon Maynard, spokesman for the Newport News Police Department, said they have not hired anyone for the position and the application process is closed.
“It’s more when they hire somebody,” he said, adding it’s now up to the city’s human resources department.
The person would serve as a client advocate by providing victims of domestic violence with personal and legal support such as housing, mental health counseling and other needs as well as referrals to community resources.
RELATED STORY: This police department is looking for a liaison to help curb domestic violence
“Under general supervision, this position develops internal guidelines and an implementation plan for victim services, as well as external outreach materials regarding domestic violence (DV) prevention, victim rights and victim assistance services in Newport News,” according to the job posting’s general description. “This position reports to a Police Sergeant.”
In addition, the specialist would be a liaison working with local, state and federal agencies. See the entire job description here.
To qualify, applicants need a bachelor’s degree in counseling or guidance, psychology, sociology, criminal justice or a related field and three to five years of experience, or a combination of education and experience. A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is also required, officials said.
Someone with previous experience in victim assistance, social work, rehabilitation and counseling is preferred.
The 2019 crime statistics show an 17.2 percent increase, or an additional 96 incident related to aggravated assault compared to 2018 crime statistics.
Aggravated assault is considered a violent crime and can include incidents of domestic violence.
In a January news conference this year, police Chief Steve Drew said one of his areas of focus is domestic violence incidents.
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