The loss of a family member to homicide can pose significant challenges. In the aftermath of a homicide, loved ones might have neither the energy nor mental clarity to organize and seek the necessary and available resources for assistance.
Family members also have to learn how to manage the realities of law enforcement and the criminal justice system. During the initial stages of the investigation the family will likely receive only the basic facts of the case. However, it is important for family and friends to share information, about the victim’s history and other pertinent information with the investigators. During the course of the investigation, the investigators will meet with the family to provide certain information. This will also allow the family to ask any questions they may have. However, please keep in mind the investigators cannot always answer your questions without compromising the investigation. Please understand that this does mean the investigators are simply withholding information from you. The premature release of information can have an adverse impact on the case.
The Victim-Witness Service component of the BPD Homicide Unit advocates for family members of the victim during the stages of grief and recovery. The purpose of Victim-Witness Resource Officers is to maintain positive communication between detectives and these survivors through meetings, forums, initiatives, and other community events. Advocates work with investigators to help grieving families by connecting families to funeral and burial resources and making referrals to public and non-profit counseling and trauma services.
Victim-Witness Resource Officers also work with the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office to improve understanding of protocols and procedures in the criminal justice system. In some cases, circumstances may arise where it is necessary to relocate a survivor and/or witness due to safety concerns. A collaborative effort by the Homicide Unit and the Suffolk District Attorney’s Office is executed for the immediate relocation of such person(s).
If you are interested in learning more about how the BPD can help, please contact Antonette Cabral at (617) 343-6512 or Daphne Orion at (617) 343-5075.
Resources
Suffolk County District Attorney's Office
As a society, we recognize that there is no crime more egregious than murder. And as a community, we know that the aftermath of homicide, regardless of the circumstances, takes a terrible and lasting toll on the loved ones left behind and the communities impacted.
Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance
MOVA is an independent state agency governed by the Victim and Witness Assistance Board. MOVA strives to advance victim rights by ensuring all victims and survivors of crime across the Commonwealth are supported and empowered through access to high-quality services that are trauma-informed, culturally-responsive, and reflective of diverse communities. MOVA achieves this through survivor-informed work, advocacy for enhanced victim rights and services, partnerships with agencies and individuals, and a commitment to providing funding and services for underserved and marginalized communities.
Offices of the United States Attorneys
Charged with ensuring “that the laws be faithfully executed,” the 93 United States Attorneys work to enforce federal laws throughout the country. The President appoints a United States Attorney to each of the 94 federal districts (Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands are separate districts but share a United States Attorney). The United States Attorney is the chief federal law enforcement officer in their district and is also involved in civil litigation where the United States is a party.
Executive Office of Public Safety and Security
EOPSS is responsible for the policy development and budgetary oversight of its secretariat agencies, independent programs, and several boards which aid in crime prevention, homeland security preparedness, and ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the Commonwealth.
Massachusetts Victims of Violent Crime Compensation
If you, a family member or a loved one has been the victim of a violent crime, you can fill out an application with the Victim Compensation Division of the Massachusetts Attorney General's Office.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
The Department of Housing and Urban Development is the Federal agency responsible for national policy and programs that address America's housing needs, that improve and develop the Nation's communities, and enforce fair housing laws.