Attorney General Frey Commemorates National Crime Victims' Rights Week

April 22, 2020

AUGUSTA - In recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which runs from April 19 through April 25, Attorney General Aaron M. Frey is making Mainers aware of the services and resources which exist for victims of crime.

"It is important that Mainers who have been victims of crimes know that, even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are resources available to them," said Frey. Statewide resources range from the victims advocacy work and Victims Compensation Fund housed within the Office of the Attorney General to the resource centers of the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence and the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault Member Centers as well as other important programs located both inside and outside of state government. I urge individuals who have been victimized to reach out, because even in a global crisis, we are here to work on your behalf.

Attorney General Frey specifically highlighted that individuals who are experiencing domestic violence can still use the phone and online hotlines maintained by the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence.

"If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is just a call away," said Frey. "I want to emphasize that if you are a victim of abuse, you are not alone, and you or someone you know can always call the 24/7 hotline at 1-866-834-4357 or online chat at thehotline.org."

Below is a sample of resources for victims of crime:

The Maine Victims Compensation Program works to assist victims of violent crimes in Maine like murder, assault, sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, child abuse, and more. Learn more about this valuable resource at http://www.maine.gov/ag/crime/victims_compensation/

If you are a victim of a homicide, victim advocates at the Office of the Attorney General provide information and support during the investigation, trial and post-trial process Homicide Survivor's Guide (PDF) https://www.maine.gov/ag/crime/crimesweprosecute/homicides.shtml

Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence: 24/7 statewide toll-free confidential helpline: 1-866-834-4357/Deaf or Hard of Hearing: 1-800-437-1220. Calling not safe? Chat at thehotline.org

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-888-373-7888

If you think you are a victim of a scam or attempted fraud involving COVID-19, contact the Consumer Protection Division of the Office of the Attorney General toll-free at 1-800-436-2131 or online at: https://www.maine.gov/ag/consumer/complaints/index.shtml

If you or someone you know has been a victim of elder fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline. 833-FRAUD-11/833-372-8311 https://stopelderfraud.ovc.ojp.gov/

Maine Department of Corrections, Office of Victim Services, offers victim services. A victim who wishes to receive victim notification of prisoner or juvenile release MUST file a request. For additional information go to http://www.maine.gov/corrections/VictimServices/

Do you know what victims rights exist in your state? Visit www.victimlaw.org to research state, federal, or tribal law.