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  crime victimization

The experience of being a victim of crime is different for each person. It may involve physical injury, emotional turmoil, or financial loss. This may be your first exposure to the criminal justice system. Many people unfamiliar with the criminal justice system experience frustration or intimidation because the legal proceedings are complex and not easily understood. This is often complicated by the perfectly natural fears that people have concerning their own testimony or exposure to the public.

 

   what we expect from you

The investigation and prosecution of a crime requires help from you. These are the things that you do to aid in the arrest and eventual prosecution of the offender:

  • Report the crime as soon as possible to the Police Department by dialing 911 or     871.7690.
  • Cooperate fully with the Police Department and the District Attorney’s staff     through all stages of investigation, prosecution and sentencing.
  • Testify as a witness for the Commonwealth at the Criminal Trial, if you are asked     to do so.
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       this is what you may expect from us

    It is the policy of the Erie County District Attorney and Gannon University Police and Safety that victims of crime be treated with dignity, compassion and respect. Victims of a crime have a right

  • To an explanation of the criminal justice process.
  • Notification if an arrest is made in their case.
  • To be informed by the Police and the District Attorney’s Office of their role in     any proceedings.
  • To be notified of court dates and of court date cancellations.
  • To have stolen or personal property being held as evidence returned as soon as     possible.
  • To be informed of financial assistance available and assistance in filing under     the Pennsylvania Crime Victim Compensation Act.
  • To be informed of the outcome or verdict in their case.
  • To have information concerning the impact of the crime on their lives presented     to the court at sentencing.
  • To be informed of the type and length of sentence and of any impending release     of the offender.
  • To be referred to any local or state agencies, counselors or others appropriate in     aiding them in their full recovery from the crime, or other personal issues, which is     a result of the crime.