Richmond RCMP Victim/Witness Services

The Richmond RCMP Victim/Witness Services offered by the City of Richmond and Richmond RCMP provides crime victims, witnesses and their families, and those who are experiencing a trauma with professional, supportive, and timely assistance to lessen the effects of crime and trauma.

Referrals to Richmond RCMP Victim/Witness Services are typically made by the Richmond RCMP officer on scene. However individuals can refer themselves to the program by contacting the Richmond RCMP Victim/Witness Services. Staff are available to assist victims by providing emotional support, information, and referrals, and can assist with Victim Impact Statements and Crime Victim Assistance forms.

Richmond RCMP Victim/Witness Services provides support to individuals for all types of crimes in the City of Richmond which have been reported to police.

Richmond RCMP Victim/Witness Services help people understand and deal with the effects of crime by providing information, 24/7 emotional support, referrals to other agencies, and help understanding court proceedings.

They will provide the following support:

• Practical Assistance
• Emergency transportation
• Victim Impact Statements
• Crime Victim Assistance Application Program
• Emergency accommodations
• Victim Notification
• Assist police with Next of Kin Notifications
• Liaison between Crown Council, Police and Victims
• Liaison between Public Health Agencies and School District
• Safety planning

Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP)

CVAP is a financial benefits program offered by the Ministry of Public Safety and the Solicitor General to assist victims, immediate family members and witnesses in dealing with the effects of violent crime. CVAP may help to offset financial loss and assist in recovery from injury. CVAP is part of a network of victim service programs throughout BC. For more information visit: www.gov.bc.ca or call 604-660-3888.  

British Columbians who wish further information about the criminal justice system and resources may go to www.justicebc.ca.

If You Have Been the Victim of a Crime

Don't hesitate to call police because you think the incident is too insignificant or because your own carelessness may have contributed to your victimization. Calling the police is an important part of protecting yourself and of being a good neighbour. Informing the police about crimes that have occurred is one way of preventing future crimes.

If You Witness a Crime or Strongly Suspect One is About to Occur

Without putting yourself in danger, carefully note any details which might be helpful to police.

These include:

• Type of crime: automobile theft, assault, etc.
• Location: the street address or nearest cross street.
• Description of the suspect(s): note height, build; color of skin, eyes, and hair; clothing.
• Unusual features, scars or tattoos, and any weapons, tools or vehicles being used.
• Description of property of person(s) being subjected to the criminal activity.
• Don't try to deal with the situation yourself. Call the police - the sooner the better. But even if some time has passed since you witnessed a suspicious incident, it's not too late to call the police.

For more information, visit BC RCMP Victim Services.