Frequently Asked Questions

A Victim Advocate's job is to ensure that every victim and witness of a criminal offense that occurs within the City of Fountain Inn is provided their constitutional rights as established by SC legislation S.616, known as the "Victim's Bill of Rights."  Types of criminal offences that our Victim Advocate can help with include the following:

Arson

Assault

Breach of Trust

Burglary

Carjacking

CDV

Criminal Sexual Conduct

DUI

Financial Transaction Card Fraud

Forgery

Grand Larceny

Harassment

Homicide

Incident Exposure

Kidnapping

Leaving the Scene of Accident with a person involved

Lewd act on Minor

Manslaughter

Murder

Obtaining Money Under False Pretenses>$1,000

Pointing and Presenting

Purse Snatching

Robbery

Safecracking

Threats

Violation of Order of Protection

How a Victim Advocate Can Help

   • Provide emotional and moral support

   • Identify and inform victims of their rights under the law

   • Conduct on the scene crisis intervention

   • Act as a liaison between victim, police officers, investigators, and community-based agencies

   • Arrange for professional counseling and support groups

   • Provide information and referral

   • Educate law enforcement and victims of a new law about specific victimization such as domestic violence   

   • Provide applications and information to victims concerning South Carolina Crime Victims' Compensation; explain purpose, procedures, and policies, and assist in the completion of forms

   • Intervene on behalf of victims with creditors or employers upon request

   • Help prepare victims for court and provide court advocacy and accompaniment

   • Provide information regarding the current status of the case

   • Provide information on rights, services, and procedures if a victim or witness is harassed or threatened