Victim Advocate

In a continuing effort to enhance victim services to all residents in the City, the Margate Police Department applied for and was awarded a grant to fund a full time Victim Advocate position. The State of Florida Attorney General’s Office, through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), awarded the grant funds, which have made a positive impact upon our community.
Tara Nussenblatt-Buzard is the Police Department’s full time Victim Advocate. Tara has six years experience working with crime victims including homicide, sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, and assault. Prior to joining the Margate Police Department, Tara served as a victim’s advocate with the Broward County State Attorney’s Office. Tara is a member of the Broward Victim’s Rights Coalition, The Broward Domestic Violence Council and the Broward County Abuse Coordination Committee. Tara’s training and experience in advocacy provides victims and witnesses with the extra support needed to reduce the impact of trauma.
The Victim Advocate provides criminal justice support and advocacy to victims throughout the legal process. In addition, the Victim Advocate will educate and inform victims of domestic violence, child and sexual abuse, as well as the elderly, about rights, remedies and resources available to them. Assistance in safety planning with domestic violence and stalking victims is a priority.
The Margate Police Department strives for excellence in service delivery to the community. We believe the Victim Advocate program is an example of that pursuit of excellence.
If you have been the victim or witness to a crime in the City of Margate and need assistance, please contact Victim Advocate Tara Nussenblatt-Buzard. The Police Department is also seeking volunteers to assist the Victim Advocate. Volunteer assistance will consist of answering phones, completing correspondence, and interacting with crime victims. For assistance or to volunteer, please call (954) 935-5385 or email the Victim Advocate at victimadvocate@margatefl.com.