Georgia Office of Victim Services

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, there is an aging population in the United States and around the world that requires us to be more aware of and vigilant about the prevalence of elder abuse.

if you or someone you know is a victim of an elder abuse crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here--> https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.
Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (weaad) 15th June

Our most recent Victim Impact Session took place on May 27, 2024, in collaboration with the Dougherty County District Attorney's Office. A Victim Impact Session allows crime victims or surviving family members to meet face-to-face with a Board member to discuss their case.

Board Member Meag Heap, Board Member Wayne Bennett, Director of Parole Christopher Barnett, Assistant District Attorney Donna Garcia, Victim Services Deputy Director Keir Chapple, Victim Services Program Manager Christopher Toussant, Senior Victim Specialist Dajah Jones, Victim Specialist Al-Jathiyah Campbell, and Clemency Liaison Wade Wheeler were present for this session.

Georgia Department of Community Supervision
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections
Dougherty County Georgia Government

Experiencing victimization can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you are a victim of violent crime in Georgia, The Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program may be able to assist you with up to $25,000. Some of the expenses covered by the program include:

-Medical
-Counseling
-Loss of Income
-Loss of Support
-Funeral Costs

For more information about the program and to see if you are eligible please visit:
https://crimevictimscomp.ga.gov/our-programs/victims-compensation/

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council
Georgia Department of Corrections

Continuing our spotlight on Victim Impact Sessions, on May 23, 2024, we collaborated with the Clayton County District Attorney's Office.

Board Member Joyette Holmes, District Attorney Tasha Mosley, Victim Services Deputy Director Keir Chapple, Victim Services Program Manager Christopher Toussant, Senior Victim Specialist Dajah Jones, Victim Specialist Kametria Dunham, and Clemency Liaison Wade Wheeler were present for this session.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections
Clayton County District Attorney

Pride Month is important for celebrating the LGBTQ+ community's achievements, history, and ongoing struggles. It's a time for visibility, awareness, and advocacy for equal rights and acceptance.

During Pride Month and beyond, it's important to uplift the voices of LGBTQ+ victims, support initiatives that aim to address violence and discrimination, and work towards creating a more inclusive and accepting society for all.

It is important to know that LGBTQ+ individuals are disproportionately affected by various forms of violence, discrimination, and harassment worldwide. Hate crimes, bullying, and discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare are still significant issues. Transgender individuals, especially transgender women of color, face alarmingly high rates of violence and murder.
If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here--> https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Over the next few days, we will be highlighting Victim Impact Sessions!

The Georgia Office of Victim Services hosts Victim Impact Sessions, in collaboration with District Attorney’s Offices, in various counties throughout the state! A Victim Impact Session allows crime victims or surviving family members to meet face-to-face with a Board member to discuss their case. On April 30, 2024, we held a session in the Waycross Judicial Circuit.

Parole Board Chairman Terry Barnard, Victim Services Deputy Director Keir Chapple, Clemency Liaison Wade Wheeler, District Attorney Marilyn Bennett, Senior Specialist Dajah Jones, and Specialist Mandy Kimner were present at this session.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision
Prosecuting Attorneys' Council of Georgia

Continuing the awareness of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month let's make sure to educate ourselves and others about the history of discrimination against AAPI communities, speak out against stereotypes and biases that perpetuate discrimination, support AAPI-led organizations and initiatives that combat racism, and promote inclusivity, and advocate for policies that address anti-AAPI discrimination and promote equity and justice for all.

Together, let's work towards a society where every member of the AAPI community is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here--> https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections

May is also Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

While we celebrate the rich cultures and contributions of the AAPI community, it's also crucial to acknowledge the challenges they face, including hate crimes and discrimination. AAPI individuals have been targets of violence and prejudice, and it's essential to stand in solidarity and support those who have been affected.


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here--> https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections

Continuing the awareness of Older Americans Month lets educate older adults about common scams and how to protect themselves, advocate for policies that prioritize the safety and rights of older Americans, support organizations that provide resources and assistance to older victims of crime, foster a community where older adults feel safe, respected, and valued.

Together, let's work towards a society where every older adult can age with dignity and without fear.


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections

May is also Older Americans Month!

As we celebrate the wisdom and contributions of our older generation, let's also remember the importance of protecting them from crime. Sadly, older adults can be targets of various scams, fraud, and abuse. It's essential to raise awareness and take action to ensure their safety and well-being.


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections

Continuing the awareness of mental health this month, this is a time to remember that victims of crime often face unseen scars. Experiencing trauma can have a profound impact on mental health, and it's important to offer support and resources to those who have been affected.

Whether it's providing access to counseling services, creating safe spaces for survivors to share their stories, or advocating for trauma-informed policies, there are many ways we can help those who are struggling. Let's break the silence, raise awareness, and offer compassion to all victims of crime.

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections

May is Mental Health Awareness Month!

Let's remember that victims of crime often face emotional and psychological challenges. Seeking support is a courageous step towards healing. Remember, you are not alone. Let's break the stigma and ensure everyone has access to mental health care.


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here--> https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Corrections

As National Child Abuse Prevention Month comes to a close, let's remember that children with disabilities are especially vulnerable to abuse. You might be this child’s only voice. If you suspect abuse, report it immediately. Together, we can create a safer world for all children. 💙

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Boys and girls both experience trauma from sexual abuse.

The good news is boys and girls can both heal from the trauma of sexual abuse.

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision , you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.


Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Division of Family & Children Services

Just like there is no typical victim of child sexual abuse, there is no typical abuser.

Men and women are both capable of abuse.
Men and women are also both capable of being the hero for a child by reporting abuse.

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Support is available for victims of crime. Call or text
855-4-VICTIM or visit victimconnect.org to access a
map of victim services and learn about victims’ rights
and options. This nationwide service is confidential,
and specialists are trained to provide compassionate,
trauma-informed support to empower survivors as
they navigate the physical, emotional, and financial
tolls of victimization. Interpretation is available
in more than 200 languages.
Options, services
and hope
for crime survivors.

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Department of Corrections or supervised by the Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision

Office for Victims of Crime
National Center for Victims of Crime

Child neglect is the most common type of abuse in the home. But YOU can make a difference by knowing the signs of possible neglect including:

• Poor hygiene
• Ill-fitting/unsuitable clothing
• Poor attendance
• Little or no medical care

Medical evidence is extremely rare in child sexual abuse cases.
That’s because children rarely report the abuse as it’s happening.

To report child abuse in Georgia, call 1-855-GA-Child (1-855-422-4453) or online at cps.dhs.ga.gov. If you suspect a child is in imminent danger, call local law enforcement.


Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision
Georgia Division of Family & Children Services

Did you know that crime victims’ rights may vary by state? Visit https://victimlaw.org/victimlaw/ during this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week or anytime to research state, federal, or tribal law.

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Department of Corrections or supervised by the Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision

Survivors of child sexual abuse can, and most often do, go on to lead healthy and happy lives.

When a child receives support and therapy they can succeed despite the abuse!

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is in the custody of the Georgia Department of Corrections or being supervised by the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles

Something you should know during this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week: Victim compensation can help reimburse victims for medical services and other costs incurred because of a crime. Visit the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council for contact information for Georgia’s crime victim compensation program: https://cjcc.georgia.gov/victims-compensation


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Department of Corrections or supervised by the Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision


Office for Victims of Crime
National Center for Victims of Crime

🕊️ We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended and participated in our panel discussion Tuesday in honor of National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Your presence and engagement made the event truly special. 🌟

To the community: Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to standing by survivors of crime. Your solidarity and compassion make a world of difference. 💙

To the victims and survivors: Your courage and resilience inspire us every day. We are honored to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing and justice. Your voices matter, and we're here to amplify them. 🌈

To our esteemed panelists: Your expertise, insights, and dedication to advocating for survivors were invaluable. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences with us. 🎤

And to our wonderful moderator: Thank you for guiding the conversation with grace and empathy. Your skillful facilitation ensured that every voice was heard and every story honored. 🙏

Together, we are creating a community where survivors are supported, empowered, and heard. Let's continue to stand together, today and every day. 💪

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision
Office for Victims of Crime
National Center for Victims of Crime
Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council
Southern Crescent Sexual Assault and Child Advocacy Center
Georgia Center for Child Advocacy
Frontline Response
MADD Georgia
Clayton County District Attorney
County Solicitor-General's Office

Use our Resource Guide to help your community learn about resources available to support survivors of crime. Victim services are available across the United States, and it’s incumbent upon us all to be informed if a friend, loved one, colleague, or anyone
else turns to us for help. https://tinyurl.com/govsresourceguide


If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Department of Corrections or supervised by the Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles

Georgia Department of Community Supervision

Victim's Version: Community Resource Guide for Victims

During this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, visit https://www.ovcttac.gov/ for the tools and resources you need to help build your capacity to serve all victims of crime.

If you or someone you know is a victim of crime and the offender is currently in the custody of the Department of Corrections or supervised by the Department of Community Supervision, you can register to receive statutory notifications here-->https://forms.gle/QQg9MpcXhNo4B8VG9.

Georgia Department of Corrections

Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision


National Center for Victims of Crime
Office for Victims of Crime

Today we wear jeans to stand against clothing being a justification for consent.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision

Today we wear jeans to stand against clothing being a justification for consent.

Georgia Department of Corrections
Georgia State Board of Pardons & Paroles
Georgia Department of Community Supervision