If you feel that you or someone else is in immediate danger, please call 911 now.

What should I do if I witness a crime?

If you witness a violent crime such as abuse, neglect, domestic violence or assault, please contact the appropriate hotline:

How to find help

If you would like to help someone who is a victim of a crime, search the Victim Services Directory to find resources in their county.

Resources for Crime Victims

If you are the victim of a violent crime, the following resources are available to help you:

Warning Signs

Human Trafficking Image

Human Trafficking

  • Sudden or dramatic changes in behavior
  • Bruises at various healing stages
  • Watched when with others
  • Not allowed to have a passport or other personal identifying documents
  • Owes money or is living and working under the control of employer
Domestic Abuse Image

Partner Violence

  • Isolated from loved ones and quits doing things they once enjoyed
  • Insulted, put down, or shamed by their partner
  • No control over their finances, work, or education
  • Unexplained or poorly explained injuries
Sexual Abuse Image

Rape & Sexual Abuse

  • Physical injuries (ex. bruising, soreness, difficulty walking, etc.)
  • Sudden or dramatic changes in behavior, including difficulty trusting others, social isolation, or depression
  • Changes in eating habits
  • Risky sexual behavior or aversion to sexual activity
  • Substance misuse

How can I help?

The most important thing you can do is regularly reach out and let the victim know they can lean on you for support. Social isolation is a common way abusers gain control over victims, so it is important they know they are not alone. Other ways to help include:

  • Stay in contact with them safely (consider using unmonitored emails or phone numbers)
  • Believe victims when (and if) they decide to share with you
  • Validate their feelings
  • Don’t be alarmed or offended if a victim lashes out at you
  • Understand victims often blame themselves or defend their abusers
  • Try to understand their position, abuse is hardly ever simple and telling them things like “just leave” is not always helpful or safe

For more information, visit thehotline.org/support-others/.