How We Help Survivors

Domestic Violence Survivor "Karen" Learns Her Rights and Finds a Voice
Three years ago Karen's marriage came to an abrupt end when her abusive husband's rage escalated into a kidnapping and standoff with police. Karen was held by her husband at gunpoint for nearly 24 hours, during which her perpetrator beat her, tore out most of her hair, and promised that she would not live to see the next day. Fortunately for Karen, police were able to diffuse the situation and Karen's husband was arrested, convicted, and sentenced for his crime.

While Karen was aware that her now ex-husband would probably not have to serve his full 10-year sentence, she was shocked to learn, after the fact, that her assailant had been paroled after serving just a few years. She contacted Witness Justice to learn more about her victim rights. Clearly Karen should have been given the opportunity to at least provide a statement at the parole hearing and, according to the laws in the state where the crime took place, she should have been given a release photo prior to the offender's discharge. Witness Justice worked with Karen to help her establish safety for herself, since she had concerns about her offender coming after her. Karen found counsel and expert tips through Witness Justice that helped her manage her hypervigilant anxiety. Realizing that victim rights were clearly violated, Witness Justice also petitioned the state to reevaluate its protocol for victim notification, and subsequently new guidelines and safeguards were implemented.

Still Scared, "Bill" Explores Reporting His Incident
Several years ago, while at work, "Bill" was assaulted by a co-worker in a stairwell. His life-threatening injuries included a massive head wound that required dozens of stitches and years of speech therapy. Still struggling to speak fluently again, Bill contacted Witness Justice to find out how to report the crime. During our conversations with him, we learned that he had additional needs. We were able to find a local advocate for him who would arrange a conversation with a law enforcement official to explore the specific steps of reporting the crime, discuss statute of limitations issues, and weigh the evidence to determine the strength of the case. Witness Justice was also instrumental in obtaining a restraining order for Bill and his family, as his assailant remains in the community and continues to threaten him. Finally, we explained to Bill that victim compensation could help to reimburse him for some of the expensive medical treatment he has endured. We remain a resource and advocate for Bill as he pursues justice for and healing from his trauma.

A Mother Struggles to See Her Daughter's Rapist Brought to Justice
"Grace" knew the identity of her 5-year-old daughter's rapist — it was Grace's then boyfriend. Feeling helpless after the fact and overwhelmed by guilt, Grace wanted to do whatever she could to protect other children from this predator and ensure that he was held accountable for what he had done to her family. Unfortunately, no material evidence was collected at the hospital, leaving the burden of proof on the shoulders of a traumatized 5-year old girl.

While Grace's frustration with the prosecution grew, she reached out to Witness Justice to see what could be done to help her daughter heal and bring the perpetrator to justice. Witness Justice acted as a liaison between the prosecutor and Grace, explaining to Grace in a thoughtful, constructive manner that the prosecution needed to wait until her daughter, the only eyewitness to the crime, could testify. In that effort, we were able to locate a local child psychologist specializing in trauma, as well as a counselor to help the mother. We also helped Grace obtain a restraining order protecting her entire family.

While it might take a long time to go to trial, Grace now feels that her daughter is getting the attention and help she deserves. Witness Justice also provided Grace with documents outlining state law and guidelines that will help to protect her daughter from further trauma when the case does go to trial. We continue to assist Grace as she copes with what happened to her family.

"Elaine" Wonders if She Will Ever Feel Good Again Following a Home Invasion
70-year-old "Elaine" contacted Witness Justice, still in shock from having been robbed days earlier and knowing that the perpetrator was still on the loose. Elaine explained that she felt too scared to go outside — knowing that her robber could be lurking out there — but she also, understandably, felt scared even inside her home. We provided practical information and resources on home and personal safety, along with information about the healing process. We also helped coordinate local resources and support groups that could be helpful as Elaine works to rebuild a sense of peace and happiness.

"Rick" Tries to Find Help Living with His Assailant
As a teen, "Rick's" options for help and reporting the violence he encounters differ from those adults have. Rick called on Witness Justice for help in dealing with domestic violence that had left him with deep emotional and physical scars. He wanted to see if there was some way of escaping the situation and beginning to heal. Rick's concerns were great — he didn't want to be put in foster care, he was concerned for the safety of his mother, he didn't know how his father would react, and he feared for his life if an attempt for help didn't result in immediate separation between Rick and his father. We provided Rick with practical information about the legal and healing processes, and found a local resource for Rick that would assist him in every aspect of reporting the abuse and pursuing justice. We remain an ongoing resource for Rick, who also noted that the Witness Justice Virtual Community has been uniquely helpful in connecting with other teens who have been or remain in situations like his.