Any Penn State student, employee or guest of the university who has been the victim of, or witness to, a crime is eligible for victim services. These services typically include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Consultation about a problem situation, incident or crime
• Crisis intervention and ongoing support
• Victim service information and referrals
• Explanation of court and legal proceedings
• Assistance in preparing for and accompaniment to court appearences
• Accompaniment during police interviews
• Notification to instructors of time missed from class due to a criminal incident

You are encouraged to contact the Victim Resource Officer at (814) 863-1907 during regular business hours to discuss your situation or to arrange for an appointment. It is the Victim Resource Officer's goal to see that you are treated with consideration, respect and sensitivity in all your interactions with the legal system.  Our aim is to provide you with the necessary information and support to enable you to make the best choices available.

The Impact of Crime

Most people experience a range of emotions including shock, disbelief, anger, self-blame and fear when they have been victimized, either by a stranger, or more frequently, by someone they know.  It is important for you to know that what happened is not your fault, and that help is available.  Because each situation is unique, the Victim Resource Officer will listen to your concerns, answer your questions and assist you in understanding what options are available to best meet your needs.

Definitions of Common Crimes

Harassment: A person commits this offense when he intends to harass, annoy or alarm another person by striking, shoving, kicking that person, following a person in or about a public place or engaging in a course of conduct which alarms or annoys another person and which serves no legitimate purpose. This can also include making a telephone call or sending an email without the intent of legitimate communication, anonymously telephoning another person repeatedly, using vulgar and indecent language, or phoning at extremely inconvenient hours.

 

Simple Assault: A person commits this offense by causing or attempting to cause bodily injury to another.

Terroristic Threats: A person commits this offense if he threatens to commit any crime of violence with the intent to terrorize another.

Sexual Assault: A person commits this offense when he engages in sexual intercourse without the other person's consent.

Rape: A person commits this offense when he engages in sexual intercourse with another person by the use of force, or the threat of force.  

How to Help a Friend

If someone you know has been the victim of a crime, whether it's rape, burglary, harassment, or even a stolen wallet, being victimized is traumatic and devastating.  Victims need special support and caring from their friends. Be willing to listen without judging or giving advice. Be supportive.  Avoid blaming the victim.  it's never the victim's fault.  Don't tell the victim how or how not to feel.  It's normal for victims to experience a variety of emotions.  Encourage action. Suggest contacting the victim resource officer, the police, a counselor and/or seeking medical attention if needed. Be patient and understanding.  There is no timetable for recovery.

Frequenty Asked Questions

Please follow this link to find out answers to commonly asked questions and concerns that have been voiced by individuals in the past.