Local Law Enforcement/Police Experience Study

2023 SCARS Scam Victim Local Police Reporting Experience Study

SCARS (Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams) is spearheading an important study aimed at improving the understanding of the scam victim experience during the local police reporting process of relationship scams.

With a significant number of victims expressing negative encounters when attempting to report these crimes, the study seeks to shed light on how law enforcement can better support victims from the moment they come forward to file a report.

The primary objective of the study is to address the concerns raised by victims who have encountered difficulties and challenges when reporting relationship scams to local police. SCARS recognizes that when traumatized victims muster the courage to seek help and report these crimes, they should be met with support, empathy, and a system that minimizes the risk of re-traumatization.

Anonymous

This study is completely anonymous. You do not have to identify yourself.

Your details will not be shared with third-parties, and only summary analysis will be published in our final report.

However, if you would like SCARS to assist you, you can optionally add your name and email address for follow-up.

The Local Police Study

The study will delve into several key aspects to provide valuable insights for crime victims’ assistance organizations, victim advocates, and law enforcement agencies:

1. A Supportive Reporting Process: SCARS acknowledges the importance of creating an environment where victims feel safe and supported. The study will focus on understanding the barriers victims face when reporting relationship scams and identify ways to improve the initial reporting experience. This includes ensuring victims are listened to, believed, and treated with respect and compassion throughout the process.
2. Empowering Victims: The study will explore how law enforcement can empower victims during the reporting process. It aims to identify strategies that allow victims to share their experiences without fear of judgment or blame. By fostering an environment that encourages open communication, law enforcement can gather essential information, build trust, and provide victims with a sense of agency and validation.
3. Trauma-Informed Approach: Recognizing that victims of relationship scams may have experienced significant trauma, the study will gather information to help emphasize the importance of a trauma-informed approach by law enforcement. This could involve training officers to better understand the psychological impact of scams, being sensitive to victims’ emotional needs, and employing strategies that minimize further harm or distress.
4. Enhancing Victim Support: SCARS aims to identify recommendations for improving victim support services within law enforcement agencies from the perspective of the victims. This includes evaluating existing resources, identifying gaps in support networks, and suggesting ways to enhance the provision of emotional support, counseling, and referrals to appropriate victim services.

The study conducted by SCARS aims to bridge the gap between scam victims and law enforcement agencies, fostering a more empathetic and effective reporting process. By better understanding the experiences, needs, and concerns of scam/financial fraud victims, law enforcement can adapt its protocols and best practices to ensure a more supportive environment.

The findings and recommendations resulting from the study will be shared with law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders through research publications such as ResearchGate. SCARS hopes that this research will contribute to a shift in the way local police handle relationship scam/financial fraud reports, enabling them to offer trauma-informed support and services that prioritize the well-being of victims while ensuring better collection of crime information.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a reporting process that not only facilitates the collection of crucial information for investigations and money recovery but also promotes healing, empowerment, and a sense of justice for those who have been victimized by relationship scams.

If you have questions or comments about this study please email us at study@AgainstScams.org

Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth,
Managing Director,
Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.