By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
OZARK — The Ozark Bureau of Police Services is encouraging crime victims and their families to learn about the protections available under Alabama law and to take advantage of resources designed to help them navigate the criminal justice system.
In a recent public awareness announcement, the department highlighted the Alabama Victim Assistance Portal (AVAP), a statewide resource that connects victims with information, services, and support.
“Most victims of crime are not aware of the rights they may be afforded by law,” the department stated. “If you or someone you know needs assistance and is a victim of a crime, the Alabama Victim Assistance Portal is a powerful tool created to connect victims to resources.”
According to information shared by the department, Alabama law recognizes that crime victims deserve dignity, respect, information, and a meaningful voice throughout the criminal justice process. These protections are guaranteed by the Alabama Constitution and the Alabama Crime Victims’ Rights Act.
Under Alabama law, crime victims have the right to be treated with fairness and respect, receive information about their case, be present at court proceedings, be heard at critical stages of the criminal justice process, receive protection from the accused, obtain information regarding restitution, receive the prompt return of property when appropriate, be notified of an offender’s custody status, and access victim services.
The department’s informational graphic emphasizes that victims’ rights in Alabama are not automatic and must be affirmatively requested.
To invoke their rights, victims are encouraged to complete a victim notification form, keep their contact information updated, communicate with their prosecutor, and participate in court proceedings as they choose. The graphic also notes that victims must invoke their rights in writing.
The Alabama Victim Assistance Portal serves as a centralized resource that helps crime victims access support services, information about their cases, and assistance throughout the criminal justice process.
The graphic also highlights several organizations and programs that provide assistance to victims, including Victims of Crime and Leniency Inc. (VOCAL), the Alabama Victim Assistance Portal, VINE, the Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission, and the Alabama Victim Notification System.
Residents seeking assistance or additional information can visit vocalonline.org or contact VOCAL at 334-262-7197.
The Ozark Bureau of Police Services encourages victims and their families to learn about the protections available to them and to ensure their rights are properly invoked so they can fully participate in the criminal justice process.
The image below was shared by the Ozark Bureau of Police Services as a public service announcement:
