Police

Cincinnati Citizens Respect Our Witnesses (CCROW)

Cincinnati understands the complexity of crime and is ready to empower our witnesses in an effort to our communities the safest in America.

What we are:

• A witness support service encompassing a variety of services and referrals.

What we are not:

• Witness protection involving changing identity.

The Victim Services witness support program provides a variety of services including court-related services, social services and referrals to counseling services designed to meet the needs of witnesses and their loved ones. Local volunteers with a desire to make our communities safer and break down the “No Snitch” culture largely service the program. It was developed and is supervised by the Cincinnati Police Department. In some cases, compensation may be available through the Ohio Victim's of Crime program.

It is a known fact that there is a “No Snitch” mentality that has plagued our communities over the last several decades, making it difficult to prosecute known criminals for the heinous crimes they commit.  Cincinnati identified a need within the system to offer empowerment to our witnesses. With collaboration between the City of Cincinnati, Cincinnati Police Department, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office and volunteers from within our communities and businesses, the Victim Services support program was created.

#Cincinnatisays:

“If you see something, say something”

Court:

Court for anyone is stressful, let alone if you have to testify.  Our staff and volunteers are dedicated to be with you every step of the way. We offer a variety of court services, including transportation, light meals and escorts.  Let our Victim Services wing-men and women surround you with support.

 

Support:

Witnesses often experience anxiety, depression and symptoms associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) such as flashbacks, difficulty eating and sleeping, difficulty concentrating and becoming easily angered. Our licensed social workers are available for you whenever you need them, and we have a variety of agencies available for referral.

 

Intervention:

Whether it be financial hardships, intimidation, or other struggles created by becoming a witness, we are there to help.  If relocating is not your need, we can assist with temporary housing and we offer panic alarms and emergency response at no cost to you.  Intimidation of a witness is a crime, and we are committed to protecting our witnesses to the full extent of the law.

 

Contact us:

513-352-6421

Karen.rumsey@cincinnati-oh.gov