Some of the best tips for crime victims are those that involve getting help after a crime. For example, a crime victim has the right to report the crime to the authorities in his jurisdiction and may feel empowered after doing so. Other helpful tips include those that involve dealing with the media after being victimized or losing a loved one because of a criminal act. The best tips for crime victims also include those that cover dealing with post-crime emotions through talks with trusted loved ones, crime victim support groups, and sometimes even professional counseling.
One of the best tips for crime victims is to always report the crime. Sometimes a crime victim may be reluctant to report a crime out of fear of the criminal or even embarrassment about being a victim. Failing to report a crime, however, essentially allows the criminal to get away with what he has done. He may then go on to victimize another person or even the same person all over again. Reporting a crime may help bring the criminal to justice and even help the victim of the crime to feel empowered.
Another tip for crime victims involves the media. If a person has been a victim of a high-profile crime, he may be approached for interviews by television, newspaper, and magazine reporters. It is important for a crime victim to understand that he has the right to refuse interviews if the idea makes him uncomfortable. He may also protect himself from intrusive questions by appointing a particular person to answer media questions on his behalf. Additionally, the families of victims typically have the right to exclude reporters from funerals and report them to police if they are exhibiting harassing behavior.
Crime victims may also need time to grieve after they have been victims of a crime; it is unrealistic to expect that a crime victim will forget what has happened and go on as if he has not been affected. It is normal to feel a range of emotions after being victimized, including, shock, anger, embarrassment, fear, and sadness. Speaking with others about these emotions may help a person to heal after a crime. For example, a crime victim may share his feelings with family members and friends, but joining a crime victim support group may prove helpful as well. Additionally, a crime victim may benefit from the help of a professional counselor who has experience with crime victims.
