By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Victims and Survivors of Crime Week: Victim impact statements

May 29, 2018 | 3:33 PM

In an effort to raise awareness of National Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, rdnewsNOW is taking a look at three different facets of what is available to someone when they become a victim.

When someone is a victim and their case goes through the courts to the sentencing stage, they have the option to present a victim impact statement.

Victim impact statements can be prepared by the victim, the survivors of the victim, the parents/guardians of a child victim, or the relative of a victim who is incapable of making one.

“This gives them the victim the opportunity to express how this impacted them financially, emotionally, physically, and to be read in the courts,” says Alma Garbe, Outreach Worker with the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre. “When the sentencing does occur, they take that into consideration.”

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VISs are typically read aloud by the victim, sometimes behind a screen or via CCTV so the offender can’t see them, or by a support person of the victim. A prosecutor, the Court, or a victim service worker can also read it, if the victim chooses. Statements may also include drawings, poems or letters.

More information is available through the Department of Justice.

If you believe you are a victim or know someone who is, visit CASASC.ca or your local victim services unit.

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Victims and Survivors of Crime Week: Victim impact statements

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