Refusal Conversion Letter

Attachment 5

CATI Refusal Conversion

Dear Current Resident:

Recently we tried calling your household to ask if you would participate in the Crime Victimization Study. This study is sponsored by the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), which is part of the U.S. Department of Justice. BJS provides important information used by law enforcement, judicial, and correctional agencies to improve their effectiveness and planning

The purpose of this study is to learn how to collect information on crime and victimization in the best way possible. Your household was scientifically selected to represent households in [CITY]. Your participation in this study is completely voluntary. However you represent thousands of other households like yours. Your cooperation will help ensure the completeness and reliability of the results.

Westat, a social science research firm, is conducting this study for us. In the next week or two, a Westat interviewer will call your household again. If we happen to call at an inconvenient time, please suggest a time that is better for you. If you would like to set an appointment before we call, contact Westat at their toll-free number (1-800-XXX-XXXX) and give your telephone number and your preferred appointment time.

Thank you again for your help in this important study.

Sincerely,

James P. Lynch

Director

Bureau of Justice Statistics

http://bjs.ojp.usdoj.gov/

Some Frequently Asked Questions about the Crime Victimization Study

Q: What is the study about? What kind of questions will you be asking?

A: The study concerns victimizations you may have experienced. This include those incidents that may not have been reported to law enforcement. For example, we will ask you about any crimes you may have experienced or witnessed and some general details about the incident. These may include what happened, if anything was stolen, if anyone was injured, or if police were notified.

Q: How will the study results be used? What will be done with my information?

A: This is a pilot study that will help the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics improve the way they collect information about characteristics of criminal victimization including those not reported to law enforcement.

Q: How did you get my address?

A: Your address came from one of two different sources. One was a random selection of addresses among all addresses in your community. The second source was a random selection of addresses that had reported a crime to the local police within the last 12 months.

Q: Why should I take part in this study?

A: Crime and the victims of crime are important issues for our Nation. A greater understanding of crime can be used in crime prevention measures. Groups that represent victims also need hard data on how crimes are perpetrated.

You represent thousands of other households like yours, and you cannot be replaced. Your answers and opinions are very important to the success of this study, as you represent others who share your knowledge and experiences.

Q: Do I have to do this?

A: Your participation is voluntary, and you may refuse to answer any questions. You can stop participating at any point. However, your participation is very important to the success of this study and will help the government improve the way they monitor crime in communities like yours.

Q: Will my answers to the survey be kept confidential?

A: Yes. Your individual answers will not be revealed to anyone but the researchers in a way that identifies you or your household. Your individual answers are protected by federal law and cannot be shared with anyone outside the individuals working on this project.

Q: How long will it take to answer the questions?

A: About 15 to 20 minutes.

Q: Who is sponsoring the study? Is this study approved by the Federal Government?

A: The study is sponsored by the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, which an agency within the U.S. Justice Department. The study has been approved by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), the office that reviews all federally-sponsored surveys. The OMB approval number assigned to this study is XXXX-XXXX.