Marsy’s Law Will Give NC Crime Victims a Voice
Most people, fortunately, have little to no idea what it means to be victimized in North Carolina. Most don’t know what it means to suffer as a result of a violent and terrifying crime. But for crime victims who suffer well beyond the crime itself, the experience is all too real and horrific.
Victims are incredibly vulnerable the moment crime strikes — through no fault of their own and out of the blue. They fear the recurrence of the crime and often fear talking about the event itself.
As a victim advocate in North Carolina for over 30 years, I have dedicated my life to this cause.
There are thousands of stories of victims across the state who get lost in the system when the crime occurs. Many call 911 for help, and sadly, the help they receive across the state varies greatly. For those who have never experienced criminal victimization, the response through the courts is sudden — and it’s a shock.
It does not look like an episode of “Law and Order,” not by a long shot.
Victims and their families are forced to endure multiple hearings, which means they have to relive the assaults over and over. The fragile scabs get ripped open again and again. The revictimization can feel as terrifying as the original assault.
North Carolina’s victims’ rights amendment, known as Marsy’s Law, will give crime victims a voice in the process and keep them informed.