More Information
Below are resources that may help you or someone you know.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is a serious public health and criminal problem. If you or someone you know is in a situation where they are being physically, mentally, or emotionally abused, there is help. You are not alone. Click here for national resources. Click here to find resources in your state.
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What is "gaslighting?"
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Sexual Assault
Sexual assault and molestation are some of the most under-reported crimes because the survivor often knows their perpetrator. If you have not told anyone there is a safe place to do so, either at a local law enforcement agency, a local victim advocacy agency for victims of sexual crimes, a national hotline for rape survivors or a trusted friend, teacher, or other professional. The There are numerous resources for survivors of this type of crime. Click here for resources.
Trauma
Survivors of violent crimes, including physical and sexual abuse, stalking, and others, may suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress and other ailments as a result of their victimization. Click here for a comprehensive website on trauma, resources for other mental health issues.
The families and friends left behind when a loved one is murdered are called "co-victims" of homicide. Click here for resources if you lost a loved one to a crime.
Crime Victim Rights
Did you know that crime victim's have rights. This is true no matter what state in the US you live in. Generally, the law enforcement agency or the district attorney's office in your area has a crime victims' advocate that can answer questions and help you with resources.
Click here for a list of national resources for crime victims.
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For more information for crime victims rights in Texas click here.
Criminal Laws & Statutes
There are resources online to educate people about laws. In the US, there are different legal systems for each state and there are federal laws that govern all US citizens.
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Each state has its own set of law pertaining to crime victims rights. Click here to find information for your state (if in the US).
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The Texas Penal Code, the The Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Texas Health & Safety Code are just a few examples of bodies of law that govern the criminal justice system in Texas.
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Victim-Centered Approach
Scholarly research about victimization tells us that criminal justice actors, whether it be law enforcement, courts, community supervision (probation & parole), or other service providers, should use a victim-centered approach and treat victims in a certain way so they do not feel re-victimized by the system.
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