Volunteers Sought for Victim Advocate Team

The Las Cruces Police Department’s Victims’ Assistance Unit is accepting applications for individuals interested in becoming a volunteer advocate through the Victim Advocate Team.

The VAT program works with advocates, police officers and detectives by helping victims of crime. Volunteering for the team is a unique opportunity for those interested in a career in law enforcement, victim advocacy, or college students who want to gain experience in law enforcement, criminal justice or social work.

VAT Volunteers must:                                        

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Have a valid New Mexico driver’s license.
• Have a reliable vehicle along with proof of insurance and registration.
• Live in Las Cruces or within close proximity of the city.
• Pass a criminal background check.

VAT volunteers serve on-call hours primarily on the weekends. All VAT volunteer advocates must attend a mandatory 40-hour training course provided by LCPD’s Victims’ Assistance Unit.

Applications can be picked up at the Las Cruces Police Department, 217 E. Picacho Ave., and are accepted until 5 p.m. Aug. 27, 2025. Training for those accepted will begin on Sept. 3, 2025.

For applications or more information on the Victim Advocate Team, contact Erika Valencia at [email protected] or the Las Cruces Police Department Victims’ Assistance Unit at (575) 528-4111.