NCJ Number
213929
Date Published
2006
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video presents the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and their story of victims of financial crimes and the efforts undertaken to restore victims’ lives.
Abstract
The majority of United States postal crimes are handled within the Federal Criminal Justice System and investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. The 2004 Justice for All Act was passed strengthening rights for Federal crime victims. Most States across the United States have similar protection laws for cases in the local criminal justice systems. These laws are in place to provide victims with a proper place in the system. In addition to the passing of Federal and State laws, victim-witness coordinators are in place to assist victims and provide the resources necessary to help them regain personal financial control and rebuild their lives. Victims seeking to find out what their rights are need only to go to the Internet sight, www.crimevictims.gov. It is suggested that the best defense for individuals to avoid becoming a crime victim is to be educated on potential scams. Internet resources for these tips are www.usps.com/postalinspectors and www.lookstoogoodtobetrue.com. This video presentation begins with a media venue where victims are interviewed by the news media. They describe their personal victimization through identity theft via mail fraud, an Internet auction scam, or investment fraud. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service offers tips and resources for individuals so that they may be better able to protect themselves from falling victim to financial scams.