The City of Chillicothe and Ross County would like to make you aware of Your Rights as a Victim. As a victim, you can be:

• assisted by a victim advocate
• helped by mental health professionals
• made aware of the "court process" ranging from arrest, court procedures, to convictions and after care

If you are the victim of a crime, you may be experiencing feelings of anger, denial, embarrassment, fear, guilt, even powerlessness as well as an increase in stress reactions such as confused thinking, dizzy spells, feeling overwhelmed, depression, panic, agitation, withdraawl from others and changes in sleeping and eating habits. Although seemingly extreme, these are normal reations to a tramatic event. In some cases, they interfere with normal patterns of life. The Crisis Center of Scioto Paint Valley Mental Health Center, is staffed 24 hours a day to offer help to persons experiencing these and other stress reactions and can be reached by calling (740) 773-4357. For appointments with counselors and other Mental Health Services call (740) 775-1260.

The Victim Advocates of the Chillicothe Municipal Court would also like to advise you on our services for you as a victim. First and foremost, we want you to know We Care! Some services we offer to victims of crimes include:

• helping you understand the court process;
• providing crisis intervention;
• reference to other agencies - so all needs are met;
• providing court escort, support, and in general "listening to your needs and concerns";
• helping you complete Victims of Crime Compensation Claims if you qualify.

Remember, we are here to help. If we can be of service, contact us directly at (740) 773-3515, Ext 130 (Brenda Hammond) or 131 (Jeanie Strong). Don't forget, as a victim you have the right to:

• Support
• Advocacy
• Confidential Counseling
• Assistance
• Freedom from intimidation, humiliation, and retaliation