Consider how you would help crime survivors

Reporting can also be complicated and vulnerable if the perpetrator is a family member, friend, intimate partner, or boss. Survivors may also feel that they are not being taken seriously or are not getting the help they need, a feeling that may be exacerbated by cultural or language barriers or distrust of the criminal justice system.

Survivors of human trafficking were not always treated as victims of crime. They were previously considered suspects and were often prosecuted for prostitution. As a police officer and board member of Tharros Place, a local nonprofit that serves child survivors of human trafficking, I am glad we have evolved beyond this antiquated thinking.

The theme for this year's National Crime Victims' Week (April 21-27) is “How Would You Help? Options, Services and Hope for Crime Survivors.” If a survivor has the courage to tell their story, they should we all stand ready to listen, empathize and help. Are you ready to help a crime survivor? If not, how will you be prepared? And how can you help educate others in your community about how to be prepared?

This year's anniversary is not only an opportunity to recognize the important work of professionals and volunteers who help victims and raise awareness of victims' rights and services, but it is also a challenge for the caring people in our community to create safe environments for survivors of crime. It's a way to remind survivors that they are not alone. And it's a call to action that each of us could be the one who can provide potentially life-saving hope – and courage – to someone who desperately needs it.