Victim Advocate

Hello! My name is Mark Weiner. I am the victim advocate at the Licking County Sheriff's Office. I provide direct services to the victims and witnesses of violent crimes. Often times, the public believes that law enforcement's only concern is rehabilitating the offender. This is not the case. In today's world, the same emphasis is placed on helping the victim deal with the tragedy that has affected their life. That's where I come into the picture.

Stress and Trauma

Individuals tend to exist in a normal state of "equilibrium" or balance. That emotional balance involves everyday stress, both positive and negative. For example being late for work, getting a promotion, having a flat tire, putting children to bed. Occasionally, stress will be severe enough to move an individual out of the state of equilibrium and into a state of depression or anxiety. But most people, most of the time, stay in a familiar range of equilibrium.

When Trauma Occurs

Trauma throws people so far out of their range of equilibrium that it is difficult for them to restore a sense of balance in life. Victims often experience emotional and physical reactions after a crisis.

The physical reaction to trauma is based upon our animal instincts. It includes:

Physical shock, disorientation and numbness. Frozen Fright.
Fight or Flight reaction.
- Adrenaline begins to pump through the body
- Physical senses - one or more may become more acute, while others "shut down".

The emotional reactions are heightened by our physical response:

State One: shock, disbelief, denial
State Two: anger, fear, grief, guilt
State Three: reconstruction of the equilibrium - an emotional roller coaster that eventually becomes balanced.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of a crime, they may be eligible to receive compensation for their medical bills, work loss, counseling or funeral expenses. In order to qualify, an application must be filed with the program within two years of the date of the crime. The crime must have been reported within 72 hours (unless there is a good reason for delay) and the victim must cooperate with the law enforcement agency. Mark has compensation applications available for victims and their families.

To learn more about V.I.N.E.(Victim Notification), stress and trauma, Ohio Victims' Rights Laws, etc., please contact Mark Weiner.

If you or a family member becomes the victim of a crime, there are many services available to you. Some examples would include providing an explanation of the court system as it relates to you, offering emotional support, providing a referral to the proper helping agency and assistance in applying for financial compensation if appropriate. We can help you gain a sense of order and satisfaction in your life.

Victim Advocate Mark Weiner R.A. at 740-670-5545 (direct line) or 740-670-5555 or Email.

Thank you very much for taking the time to visit our site.

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