Ever been the victim of a crime? It can turn your life upside down. Anxiety creeps in. You begin to question your safety everywhere you go.
Maybe you’re lucky and you haven’t.
The statistics are staggering: 328,236 felonies or violent crimes were reported in Georgia in 2017.
Every crime often impacts one or more victims. And those victims could experience repercussions from those crimes for years to come.
Often they feel alone. Many don’t understand the legal process.
Victims of Crimes Have Rights
With the abundance of true crime TV shows and movies, we all are well aware of the rights the accused have.
But you might not know victims of crimes have rights, too.
In 1982, President Ronald Reagan established the President’s Task Force on Victims of Crime, paving a pathway for crime victims to learn about and access their rights.
This Year’s Campaign
Each year an awareness campaign is coordinated in April to spread the word that agencies are equipped and ready to support victims of crime from the first step of the process through the resolution of the case and beyond.
This year’s campaign is dedicated to honoring the progress those in the past have made, as well as creating hope for an even better future of supporting victims of crime.
The agencies who support victims of crime are passionate about what they do. I had the opportunity to interview Maegan Knight, Director of Victim Services for Douglas Judicial Circuit in Douglas County, Georgia. This isn’t just a job to her. Her passion for supporting victims of crime was very evident.
She said, “From the first time we speak to a victim of crime, we want them to feel heard and understood and to know we will be with them through every step of the process. Our goal is to empower victims by truly advocating for them, so they can overcome the injustice they’ve experienced.”
Every Victim Matters
Recently, Maegan’s office received a thank you note from a domestic violence survivor they supported through her two year journey for justice.
A part of the thank you note reads: “We went so long, TOO LONG, in complete despair. We never dreamed we could get out of the situation. Who do you go to when you don’t trust the police? Well now we know – your office. I will always be thankful to you guys for believing in us and fighting for our freedom. You guys are our angels. I will never be backed in a corner again and my confidence in the system is truly restored. That is thanks to you guys.”
“Every victim matters,” Maegan shared. “This is why we work so hard for our clients.”
Check out the video below to experience the powerful impact a victims rights advocate can have on a victim’s life.
The Rights of a Victim
Because I (Melony) have never been the victim of a crime, I didn’t even know I had rights. When Maegan discussed the rights of a victim, I knew others needed to know this information, as well.
None of us can know when we will be the victim of a crime. But, being knowledgeable about your rights now will empower you should that day come.
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Protect Yourself
Most people believe they will never be the victim of a crime, but the truth is crimes are committed against people from all demographics and lifestyles every single day.
Although you cannot guarantee a crime will never be committed against you, here are a few steps you can take to protect yourself from being targeted:
- Avoid distractions that would prevent you from being aware of your surroundings.
- Make it a habit to keep your vehicle and all entrances to your residence locked at all times.
- Be mindful of personal information you post on social media, such as your address or your daily routines.
- Follow your instincts and avoid potentially dangerous situations.
- Be a bystander who is willing to intervene or call 911 when you witness a crime or suspicious activity.
If you or someone you know have been the victim of a crime and aren’t sure who to turn to for help, please visit the Office for Victims of Crime to find resources and support near you.
If you live in Georgia, you can also reach out to Maegan Knight at 770.920.7292. She will connect you to the Victims Services Department near you.
Leave a reply (below): Actress Rita Wilson said, “Awareness is empowering.” I believe she’s right.
Let’s flood social media and email boxes with awareness about the rights of victims of crime during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week!
Having never been the victim of a crime I wasn’t aware this sort of help existed. Such a valuable service for people in a vulnerable time of their lives! You ladies do amazing work! Thank you!
Thanks, Brooke! It was an incredible experience to learn about what they do. I would definitely want their support if I were the victim of a crime. Please share the post so others are aware of their rights, too!