The goal of the Victim Assistance Unit (VAU) of the Harris County pct. 5 Constable's Office is to assist victims and their loved ones following a violent crime. The Victim Liaisons provide direct assistance to crime victims through advocacy, support, education, and outreach. The VAU attempts to mitigate the effects of the incident, decrease secondary victimization, increase involvement and cooperation of victims and witnesses in the criminal justice system, and assist in moving from victim to survivor.