KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
Our educational materials help victims stay informed and connected with available support services and community resources, ensuring they receive the holistic assistance they deserve.
VICTIM-SURVIVOR
GUIDEBOOK
An Informational Guide to Pardon, Commutation of Sentence, & Parole Hearings
The Victim-Survivor Guidebook was created with the Louisiana Board of Pardons & Committee on Parole to support crime victims and survivors. It aims to help you understand and navigate the processes of pardons, commutation of sentences, and parole.
Crime can deeply affect your life over time, impacting you physically, emotionally, psychologically, financially, and spiritually. This is true for victims, survivors, family, friends, community members, inmates, and others involved.
While the guidebook focuses on victims and survivors, it can be helpful for anyone interested in learning about these proceedings.
Our goal is to provide information that clarifies the work of the Board of Pardons & Committee on Parole, the services offered by the Louisiana Victim Outreach Program (LAVO), and the rights and roles of victims and survivors. We aim to show compassion and help you find peace of mind. Please download the guidebook for more information on the pardon and parole processes, victims' rights and services, and more.
STATE + NATIONWIDE
SUPPORT
Healing and support services are not a one-size-fits-all kind of resource. Your healing process may require different methods that LAVO may not be able to offer directly.
Although we are trauma-informed and healing-oriented, we specialize in pardon and parole guidance and crime victim services.
If you're not a victim of a crime but still experience trauma, mental health issues, or similar problems, we believe this list of resources can help guide you to the right support. We don't want our limitations to prevent you from continuing your healing journey.
As always, feel free to contact us if you have any questions about this list.
RESOURCE MAP
Regional
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Elizabeth “Libby” Tigner - VAC
Email: Elizabeth.Tigner2@la.gov
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Gerri Garon - VAC Manager
Email: Gerri.Garon@la.gov
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Joe Dier - VAC
Email: Joe.Dier@la.gov
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Charles Romero - VAC
Email: Charles.Romero@la.gov
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Wynn Martin - VAC
Email: Wynn.Martin@la.gov
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Andree Mattix - VAC
Email: Andree.Mattix@la.gov
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Cole Gralapp - VAC
Email: Cole.Gralapp@la.gov
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Stephanie Jones - VAC
Email: Stephanie.Jones@la.gov
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Kristin Parsons - VAC
Email: Kristin.Parsons@la.gov
Statewide
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The State of Louisiana offers a program called CRIME VICTIM REPARATIONS (CVR). If you are eligible, this program can reimburse you for expenses you paid out of pocket due to a violent crime.
Learn more here about who can apply, what’s covered, and how to submit an application.
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Federally designated statewide coalition of shelters, non-residential programs, and individuals working to end domestic violence in Louisiana.
+1 (888) 411-1333 -
LaFASA is committed to empowering survivors, engaging advocates, and changing systems and social norms to end sexual violence in Louisiana.
+1 (888) 995-7273 -
Online tool to help you find the Community Health Center closest to you
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VINELink is the online portal to VINE, America’s leading victim notification network. Accessible 24/7/365, VINELink provides the most reliable information regarding custody status changes and criminal case information.
Nationwide
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The Victim Connect Resource Center is a referral helpline where crime victims can confidentially and compassionately learn about their rights and options.
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The mission of the National Center for Victims of Crime is to forge a national commitment to help victims of crime rebuild their lives. We are dedicated to serving individuals, families, and communities harmed by crime.
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RAINN is the nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization. RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country.
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Whether you're facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, our caring counselors are here for you. You are not alone.
24/7 Hotline: +1 (800) 273-8255
RESOURCE GUIDES
Find helpful information about your needs in our newly updated Resource Guides listed alphabetically below.
All guides are available to view online and download for personal use, reference, and sharing with others.