Assisting With Your Recovery

Victims and witnesses are emotionally affected by crime. Although everyone reacts differently, victims and witnesses commonly report some of these behaviors:

• Increased concern for your personal safety and that of family members. You may naturally be more cautious.
• Trouble concentrating on the job.
• Difficulty handling everyday problems or feeling overwhelmed.
• Going over the circumstances of the crime again and again, and thinking about what might have gone differently.
• Difficulties from financial loss.

These problems are normal, and they may decrease with time. Talking with the Postal Inspector handling your case or a Victim/Witness Coordinator may assist in your recovery. If the defendant either pleads guilty or is found guilty, you have the opportunity, before sentencing, to submit an “Impact Statement” describing the emotional, physical, and financial effects of the crime on your life and that of your family. A Victim/Witness Coordinator can help you prepare the statement, if needed.