Manual for Families of Violent Crime Victims
1. Introduction
The aftermath of a violent crime can be an incredibly challenging and emotional time for the families of victims who died or suffered serious injuries. This manual provides guidance on how to increase the likelihood of successfully navigating interactions with law enforcement and state and federal agencies to ensure your case or a case involving a loved one receives the attention that it deserves.
Most victims and their families are not experts in all tenets of the criminal justice system. As you progress through its various stages, you may experience anger and frustration because some jurisdictions may make you feel like the offender has more rights than the victim or the victim’s family. It is the position of the Caldwell Institute that most people simply want to obtain justice swiftly so that they can begin the extensive healing process caused by the unnecessary trauma they have experienced.
In seeking justice, it is important to remember that most law enforcement officials attempt to solve crimes and to ensure that justice is served. However, criminal cases involving violent crimes or homicide require intensive investigation and planning, so it is important to remember that accuracy and careful preparation are critical to a lawful arrest and a successful prosecution. The steps in this guidance should help victims and traumatized families better understand and navigate the complex system that governs law enforcement and prosecutors while making them more accountable to the survivor(s).
The Caldwell Institute will help those affected by violent crime including homicide through the difficult process of seeking justice, which at times can feel like the only ones serving a “life sentence” are the survivors. Our goal is, as some cases become protracted, to help you to gather information or assist with the investigation to ensure victims receive justice. As a resource designed to help you through this ordeal, this organization also provides guidance on how to obtain the direct contact and responsiveness that you need through the appropriate law enforcement entity, its investigators, applicable political representatives, or the media (see our “How to Pitch a Story” page for more information), while assuring that you capitalize on your rights as a survivor.
You should never feel like you have run into a brick wall when inquiring on basic or public tenets of an investigation. As a victim or survivor, you are entitled to information about pending cases and how to obtain assistance, the majority of which is funded with public tax dollars designated for you and affected members of your family.
To be clear, The Caldwell Institute acknowledges that compensation can never erase the painful memories of a crime. But when combined with investigative action, proactive prosecution, commensurate sentencing, and the provision of information about the crime, it may answer questions posed by people in recovery and provide a feeling of justice for victims, while helping to ease some of the emotional and financial burdens faced by survivors.
2. Contacting Local Law Enforcement
Initial Law Enforcement Contact
File a Report: Ensure that a police report is filed as soon as possible. Obtain a copy of the report for your records/reference.
Obtain the relevant case number(s): Request the case number relating to the report. Note that in some jurisdictions, there may be multiple record numbers relating to your case (one referencing the case, one referencing the booking number, one referencing the offender’s unique individual record — the best practice is to obtain all of the relevant numbers associated with the case file). Request the contact information of the detective or officer assigned to investigate you or your loved one’s case
Follow-Up:
- Schedule regular follow-up calls or meetings with the detective or assigned officer to stay updated on the progress of the investigation. It is important to maintain a regular cadence for contact with the person investigating the case or their respective supervisor. Oftentimes, in very complex cases, they may not have frequent changes in the investigation, but your request for contact lets the investigator know that you care about its status and expect updates.
- Obtain the telephone number for the Victim’s Rights/Assistance Officer either working at the police department or for the Office of the District Attorney/State’s Attorney’s Office and determine who is assigned to your case. Victim’s Rights/Assistance Officers offer a broad range of services, monetary and emotional support based, that can help victims and their families in times of loss.
- Obtain the case/docket number in the applicable district where the court case will be heard; the docket number will help you remain apprised of all case-related movement through the criminal justice system.
Communicating Effectively
Designate familial points of contact: Discuss who in your family will be the designee(s) to maintain direct contact with law enforcement during the investigation. Share the names of the person(s) who the family designates with the investigator and their supervisor. Ensure the person(s) designated in that role obtain answers regarding details that can be shared and enable the investigating agency to correct anything that may be rumor or gossip.
Documentation: Maintain a detailed log of all communications with law enforcement, including dates, times, and summaries of discussions.
Questions to Ask:
- When can the survivor(s) expect an in-person meeting with investigators
- What steps are being taken in the investigation?
- Are there any leads or suspects?
- What can we do to assist with the investigation?
- Each state has Victim’s Assistance and Notification Everyday (VINE). Survivors and victims can sign up for this 24/7/365 notification service typically using only the first and last name of the offender (with case info) to receive release information, prisoner transfer information, and any other changes in custody status that can inform them of up-to-date criminal case information.
- When can the survivor(s) expect an in-person meeting with investigators
Requesting Additional Resources
If you feel the investigation is not progressing, consider:
Contacting the investigator’s supervisor for an update. If the supervisor is unresponsive, you can always elevate your request to a deputy chief or chief of police.
Requesting additional resources such as specialized units (e.g., homicide, gang, or narcotics units).
3. Involving the State Attorney General or FBI
State Attorney General (AG)
When to Contact: If you believe there is a lack of progress, public corruption, or mishandling of the case, you can contact the state AG’s office.
How to Contact:
- Write a formal letter outlining your case, the lack of progress, and any concerns.
- Include all relevant documentation and correspondence with local law enforcement.
- Request an independent review or intervention.
- Email and mail the letter to the Attorney General via US Postal Service with delivery confirmation/signature required.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
When to Contact: If the crime involves violation of federal laws, has elements that touch on interstate commerce such that the facts may create federal jurisdiction, organized crime, or hate crimes, the FBI may become involved.
How to Contact:
- Submit a tip through the FBI’s website or contact your local FBI field office.
- Provide detailed information about the crime, including why you believe federal intervention is necessary.
- Be prepared to provide all documentation and evidence you have collected.
- Email and mail the letter to the FBI Special Agent in Charge in your United States District via US Postal Service with delivery confirmation/signature required.
- Preparation: Prepare a concise and clear narrative of the events, focusing on the facts and your call to action.
- Spokesperson: Designate a family spokesperson to handle all media interactions to ensure consistent messaging.
- Practice: Rehearse key points and anticipate potential questions.
4. Utilizing Social Media
Create Awareness: Use social media platforms to share your story and updates.
Engage with Followers: Respond to comments and messages to keep the community engaged.
Hashtags: Use relevant, viral hashtags to increase visibility.
5. Additional Support and Resources
Victim Support Services
Counseling: Seek professional counseling services for emotional and psychological support.
Support Groups: Join support groups for families of violent crime victims for shared experiences and advice.
Legal Assistance
Victim Advocates: Contact local victim advocate organizations for legal guidance and support.
Pro Bono Services: Look for legal professionals who offer pro bono services for victims’ families.
Fellow survivors and families:
Contact organizations like Circle of Mothers, MADD, Mothers Against Murderers Association, National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children, Mothers of Murdered Angels, etc
