Crime Prevention and Victim Resources
Crime prevention is always more desirable than prosecuting crimes after they occur, and crime victims often need various types of assistance after a verdict is reached or a plea deal is brokered. This section includes articles and lists of resources pertaining to crime prevention and crime victims, including links to national and local nongovernmental agencies providing advocacy on behalf of victims and links to federal agencies. You will also find an overview of neighborhood watch programs, which engage community members in the prevention of neighborhood crime; an explanation of self-defense; how restitution works; the meaning and legality of a citizen’s arrest; and more.
- Crime Prevention Resources
Comprehensive list of resources related to the prevention of crime, including links to national crime prevention awareness organizations; information about cyber crime; and recommendations for reducing crime in local neighborhoods.
- Crime Victim Resources
Links to various government agencies and nongovernmental organizations advocating on behalf of crime victims, including hotlines for victims of specific crimes; information about victim notification systems; and more.
- What is Neighborhood Watch?
General information about neighborhood watch programs, which involve partnerships among local police and community residents with the goal of reducing crime through awareness and communication among neighbors.
- Citizen's Arrest
Overview of a private citizen’s right to make a citizen’s arrest in certain situations, including laws governing such arrests; when they are considered valid; and Fourth Amendment concerns.
- Restitution
Explanation of restitution, payment made by the perpetrator of a crime to the victims, including when it typically applies; how it differs from criminal fines; and examples of the process.
- Self-Defense Overview
General overview of self-defense and its use in defending against criminal charges; how the use of force is justified only when used to thwart an “imminent threat;” and more.