The Victim Offender Restitution Program (VORS) gives youth offenders the opportunity to learn the harm they have caused, ‘make right’ their wrongs and become accountable for their actions. The program also works to provide, financial and psychological restitution for victims and relief for the overloaded Juvenile Justice system. Developed under the auspices of a Collaboration Team headed by the Presiding Judge, Victim Offender Restitution receives referrals from throughout LA County via Probation and law enforcement. Mediations facilitated by trained community volunteers are held between offenders and their victims who include private citizens, homeowners, teachers, local city governments, businesses and other children. Crimes include vandalism, theft, assault, shoplifting and other non weapon crimes.

 

In Victim Offender Restitution mediations, offenders learn the harm they have caused and have an opportunity to reach an agreement to make restitution. Since 1992, 98% of the more than 4000 Victim Offender Restitution program mediations have reached agreements resulting in over $700,000 in restitution to victims, over 20,000 hours of community service performed and 3,920 letters of apology written by the youth offenders to their victim.