In 2020 The University of Kentucky Police Department created a Special Victims Unit which consists of a Special Victims Unit Lieutenant, Detective, and Victims Advocate. These dedicated professionals help victims of interpersonal violence navigate through the criminal justice system with respect and integrity.

The mission of the Special Victims Unit is to provide compassionate support services to survivors of interpersonal violence while removing barriers of reporting. We are committed to holding offenders accountable within the criminal justice system by maintaining quality police services with timely, thorough, and trauma-informed investigative techniques.

• You have the right to be treated with fairness, respect, dignity, and to be protected from intimidation or harm throughout the criminal and juvenile justice process.
• You have the right, upon request, to be informed about victims’ rights, criminal proceedings, and if the accused is arrested, released, or escapes.
  • To be notified, register with VINE at www.vinelink.com or call 1-800-511-1670
  • If offender is in custody, click “Find an Offender”
  • To be notified of court dates, click “Find an Offender Court Case”
• You have the right to have your safety, dignity, and privacy to be considered.
• You have the right to be heard at bond, bail release, pleas, or sentencing.
• You have the right to proceedings free from unreasonable delay.
• You have the right to be present at criminal proceedings.
• You have the right to consult with prosecution.
• You have standing to assert your rights, have an attorney assert your rights, or request the attorney for the Commonwealth assert your rights.
• You have the right to full restitution paid by the convicted.

UK’s Violence Intervention and Prevention Center

Free on campus support, advocacy, referrals, education, and anti-violence activism on campus. Contact 859-257-3574.

UK’s Counseling Center 

On campus counseling and crisis intervention services. Contact (859) 257-8701.

Title IX Office

On campus academic, housing, and employment accommodations and assistance for survivors of interpersonal violence, as well as independent investigations into incidents of assault, abuse, and harassment. Contact (859) 257-8927.

Ampersand Sexual Violence Resource Center 

Free, confidential therapy, advocacy, and support services to survivors of sexual violence in Central Kentucky. Contact (859) 253-2511.

Greenhouse 17 

Provides advocacy, education, shelter, and support services for survivors of dating and interpersonal violence. Contact (800) 544-2022.