Victim Issues of Gang Violence

Victims must face the entire community of the gang, as opposed to a sole perpetrator

Victims fear (justifiably) intimidation and retaliation, which may lead to lack of cooperation with the criminal justice system.

Lack of sympathy for victims due to assumptions regarding their contribution to the crime.

If the victim has gang affiliations, there may be a lack of resources available due to restrictions on victim service programs to assist individuals who in any way "contributed" to the crime.

Media portrayals of victims tend to be negative, therefore creating a lack of support.

Few community-based organizations have the experience or expertise to offer services to victims of gang violence.

Geographical, racial, language and cultural considerations can create significant barriers in a victim’s ability to access services.

Victims may have a distrust of the system, therefore may be reluctant to aces services or be willing to cooperate with investigation and/or prosecution.