|
Victim Services Unit
Lori Waters: (607) 737-5800
The Chemung County Victim Services Unit is a collaborative effort among the Chemung County Sheriff's Office, the Elmira Police Department, the Elmira Heights Police Department and the Horseheads Police Department designed to assist victims of Domestic Violence and other violent crimes. The Victim Services Unit is funded through grants obtained from the New York State Crime Victims Board and the New York State S.T.O.P. Violence Against Women grant program.
>Information for Victims of Domestic Violence
>Information for Crime Victims
>Information from the New York State Crime Victims Board
Crime Victims
The Victim Assistance Unit is here to help you. Being the victim of a crime can be a frightening and painful experience, and it takes both time and the support of others to recover. In addition, victims often feel frustrated in their contacts with the criminal justice system, which may seem cold, impersonal, and confusing. That's why we're here.
We work with victims and witnesses of violent crimes that take place in Chemung County. These include felony assault, robbery, sexual assault, and child abuse. We also work with family members of homicide victims. Since anyone can become a crime victim, the program works with people of all ages and ethnic groups. In addition, we provide specialized services to children, senior citizens, and refugees. Our goal is to help reduce the trauma you may have following a crime, and to make your contacts with the criminal justice system as comfortable as possible.
As a victim or witness, you have the right...
- To be safe from harassment or intimidation by suspects.
- To apply for Crime Victims Compensation.
- To be informed of the investigation, filing of charges, and court proceedings in your case.
- To request a "Order of Protection" if charges are filed.
- To attend court proceedings.
- To have a voice in court proceedings.
Contact the Victim Services Unit for more information on these rights.
Your advocate will provide friendly, professional help as you deal with the criminal justice system. Advocates are not lawyers, but are familiar with the workings of the criminal justice system and the needs and rights of victims. We understand how crime can affect your life, and are here to help you deal with the emotional, financial, and legal needs you may have as the result of a crime. There are no fees. Our specific services include:
- Crisis Counseling
We will help you deal with the immediate emotional concerns you may have following a crime. For more extensive counseling needs, we can make referrals to specialized counselors and support groups.
- Social Service Referral
Advocates can help you find a wide variety of social services, such as emergency housing, medical care, food, financial assistance, and language interpretation.
- Information and Support
We will provide you information on your legal rights, and will update you on the investigation of your case. We can lend you support during court and trial proceedings, including interviews with attorneys.
- Transportation
If necessary, we can provide transportation to court hearings and other appointments related to the crime.
- Court Proceedings
We will notify you of all relevant court proceedings, and will be with you in court should you be required to testify
If you suffer financial losses as a victim...
- New York State Crime Victims Compensation Board
If you have medical expenses, loss of income, or become disabled as a result of the crime, you may be eligible for payments under the Crime Victims Compensation Program. This program does not pay for property losses.
- Restitution
If the defendant in your case is found guilty, the judge may order him/her to repay you for the losses you have as a result of the crime. The money the defendant is ordered to pay is called restitution. Whether or not restitution is ordered, you can sue the defendant for damages in a civil proceeding if you have physical or emotional injuries, pain, suffering, or property loss. To file a civil suit, you should consult an attorney.
- Return of Property
If your case does not go to trial, the investigating police officer or detective can authorize release of your property. When property is used as evidence at a trial, it is usually released at the end of the proceedings.
Below are some reactions common to people who experience traumatic stress as a result of a crime. They may vary in intensity and duration and may occur whether or not you are injured.
Although these thoughts, feelings and actions can be very upsetting, it is important to remember that they are normal reactions to abnormal situations.
Thoughts
- Recurring dreams or nightmares.
- Trouble concentrating or remembering.
- Cannot get the event off your mind.
-
Feelings
- Guilt.
- Feeling emotionally numb or withdrawn.
- Lack of enjoyment in everyday activities.
- Feeling depressed.
- Feeling anxious.
- Lack of trust in others.
- Anger, including thoughts of revenge.
- Feelings of helplessness.
Behaviors
- Increase in communication problems with others.
- Keeping busy to avoid thinking about the event.
- Isolating yourself from other people and/or former activities.
- Sleeping and eating disorders.
- Difficulty making decisions.
Things You Can Do For Yourself
- Physical exercise (if possible) alternated with relaxation will alleviate some of the physical reactions.
- Structure your time.
- Don't label yourself as crazy, you are normal and having normal reactions.
- Talk to people--talking is a very healing medicine.
- Be aware of numbing the pain with overuse of drugs or alcohol. Be careful not to complicate the issue with a substance abuse problem.
- Keep a journal, write your way through those sleepless hours.
- Do things that feel good to you.
- Supplement your diet with vitamins.
- Don't make any major life changes.
- Make as many daily decisions as possible, which gives you a feeling of control over your life, i.e., if someone asks you what you want to eat, answer them even if you are not sure.
- To heal from traumatic stress, it is important to allow yourself time to grieve your losses, such as physical injuries or feelings of security, and to give yourself permission to heal at your own pace.
Domestic Violence Victims
You are not alone. Get help right away.
>Click here for help with Domestic Abuse
|
