Your Rights as a Crime Victim
As a victim of crime in Missouri, you have rights protected by law. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is committed to ensuring these rights are upheld throughout the criminal justice process.
• The right to be present at all criminal justice proceedings
• The right to be informed of the status of the case
• The right to be heard at sentencing and parole hearings
• The right to restitution
• The right to be treated with dignity, respect, and sensitivity
• The right to be reasonably protected from the accused
• The right to be informed of the escape or release of the accused
Victim and Witness Tampering
Missouri law protects victims and witnesses from intimidation and tampering. It is a crime for anyone to threaten, intimidate, or attempt to influence a victim or witness in a criminal case. If you experience any form of tampering or intimidation, report it immediately to law enforcement.
The Investigative Process
After a crime is reported, the investigative process may include:
• Initial response by a uniformed officer or trooper
• Crime scene processing and evidence collection
• Witness interviews and statements
• Follow-up investigation by detectives or investigators
• Presentation of evidence to the prosecuting attorney
You may be asked to provide a statement, identify suspects, or testify in court. Your cooperation is essential to the successful prosecution of the case.
Court Proceedings
If the case goes to court, you may be called as a witness. Here is what you can expect:
• You will be notified of court dates and proceedings
• You have the right to be present in the courtroom
• You may be asked to testify about what you saw or experienced
• You may submit a victim impact statement at sentencing
• A victim advocate can accompany you to court proceedings
Compensation and Restitution
Crime victims in Missouri may be eligible for compensation through the Missouri Crime Victims' Compensation Program. This program can help cover expenses such as:
• Medical and dental expenses
• Mental health counseling
• Lost wages
• Funeral and burial expenses
Resources
• Missouri Crime Victims' Compensation:(573) 526-4999
• National Domestic Violence Hotline:1-800-799-7233
• National Sexual Assault Hotline:1-800-656-4673
• Missouri State Highway Patrol:(573) 751-3313
Contact
Missouri State Highway Patrol
1510 East Elm Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101
Phone: (573) 751-3313
Website: www.statepatrol.dps.mo.gov
Emergency: 1-800-525-5555 or cellular *55