HOW DO I FIND OUT WHAT IS GOING ON WITH MY CASE?
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Because of the nature of property crimes, there may be a lapse of time between the time when a crime is reported and when, or if, a defendant is apprehended. This may be especially true in situations in which property is damaged or stolen. Once a defendant is apprehended, there may also be a length of time before a case come to trial. Sometimes, the hardest part is simply not knowing what is going on, especially not even knowing if a defendant has been caught at all, or what his or her name may be. If you are having difficulties determining this information, you can contact the law enforcement agency that handled your case, or your local Victim-Witness Assistance Program. Sometimes, certain kinds of information must be withheld during the initial stages of a case, so as not to compromise the investigation. Also, the names and outcomes of juvenile offenders are also protected from disclosure due to their age. However, as a victim of crime, you have a right to information about your case as it progresses through the criminal justice process. The Victim-Witness Assistance Program can keep you up-to-date on major developments in your case, such as advising you of the court date or if the defendant decides to plead guilty.