No one likes to think about the chances of becoming a victim of a violent crime, but statistics report that a violent crime occurs every 19 seconds in the United States. Victims of crime experience not only emotional trauma, but physical pain and financial losses as well. For most victims, there is tremendous confusion regarding the criminal justice system and how it works.

The Jefferson County Victim's Assistance Center, a division of the Criminal District Attorney's Office, was created to provide assistance to victims of crime. The Center's fundamental mission is to ensure quality services are provided to victims of crime suffering from psychological trauma, physical injuries and financial losses. Staff members provide direct services to victims through crisis counseling, case management, advocacy, and court accompaniment.

Since 1991, the Center has assisted over 23,000 victims of crime. The Center receives funding from a Victims of Crime Act Grant, a Violence Against Women Act Grant, and the Jefferson County Commissioners Court. Due to these generous sources, the Center has continued to provide its services free of charge. The Center also aims to reduce the occurrence of secondary victimization. Besides direct contact with the victim, the Center participates in community awareness presentations.

The Center is open from 8 a.m. until noon and 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Staff or trained volunteer advocates assist victims between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. In addition, counseling appointments are available at noon and after 5 p.m.

If you are a victim of crime and want to talk to someone who will listen, and who can help, call the Center at 409-833-3377 or 409-983-3377, ext 2318.

OTHER HELPFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

Jefferson County District Attorney's Office	409-835-8550
Women's Shelter	409-832-7575 or 1-800-621-8882
National Domestic Violence Hotline	1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (for the deaf)
TX Dpt. of Human Services Abuse Hotline	1-800-252-5400
TX Runaway Hotline	1-800-580-HELP
TDCJ Victim Services	1-800-848-4284
Crime Victim's Compensation	1-800-983-9933
Rape, Suicide Crisis Center	409-835-3355 or 1-800-793-2273
East Texas Legal Services	409-835-4971 or 1-800-365-1861
Jefferson County Bar Association (Pro Bono)	409-839-2332 or 409-727-2191 ext. 2332
Family Violence Legal Line	1-800-374-4673
Dispute Resolution Center	409-835-8747 or 409-983-8317
Family Services of Beaumont	409-833-2668
Family Services of Port Arthur	409-983-4591
Child Protective Services	1-800-252-5400
Adult Protective Services	1-800-252-5400