Your Situation - Step 5
After Sentencing or Offender Release
The post-sentencing stage covers the period after conviction through offender incarceration, potential parole hearings, and release. This section provides information about your ongoing rights, notification systems, parole process participation, and continued support resources during this phase.
For non-emergency situations that require police response, call 713-884-3131 (Houston) or your local police department.
Key Considerations & Support
This phase of your journey may bring new challenges and opportunities for healing. Taking proactive steps and accessing available resources can help you maintain control and move forward with confidence
Understand the post-conviction process
After sentencing, you can get custody, parole-review, and release updates. Ask how to submit input that explains how release decisions could affect you, and confirm how you’ll be notified. Keeping your contact info current ensures you don’t miss alerts.
Parole and notifications
Learn when parole reviews happen and how to share your input. Set a simple update plan (for example, email updates before key review dates). Save any letters or emails you receive about status changes.
Post‑conviction Victim Impact Statement (VIS)
You may be able to submit a VIS or other input for parole/release decisions. Your VIS is your voice—describe how the crime affects your life emotionally, physically, and financially. An advocate can help you prepare it. Crime Stoppers of Houston has created a program for victims to record Victim Impact Statement Vides that can be submitted to the Texas Board of Pardons and Parole to be heard at all parole hearings for the offender in your case. This project allows your story to be preserved forever. If the offender is in the custody of TDCJ and you would like a victim impact statement recording, please complete our victim impact statement project form at https://crime-stoppers.org/victim-impact-statement-project
Safety planning after release
If someone is released, review safety at home, work, school, and online. Ask about protective measures (safety planning, emergency shelter, protective orders). If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. For non-emergencies in Houston, call HPD’s non-emergency line at 713-884-3131.
Records and support
If you have safety concerns about an offender's release, work with victim advocates to develop or update your safety plan. This may include changes to routines, home security measures, or other protective steps.
Know your rights and next steps
Ask who to contact if new concerns arise and how to update your information quickly. When communicating with agencies, use your own words; it’s okay to say “I don’t know” or ask for clarification or a short pause
Resources and Services
Taking these steps can help ensure your safety and preserve important evidence.
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100th Judicial District Attorney's Office
Assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation, Assistance with Victim Impact Statements, Assistance with Restitution, Criminal Justice Accompaniment, Follow - up, Information & Referral, Other, Protective Orders, Safety Planning, Victim Advocacy
Parents of Murdered Children (POMC)
Parents of Murdered Children (POMC) offers ongoing emotional support to help survivors of homicide rebuild their lives and navigate the criminal justice process. Our National Headquarters connects survivors with local support, provides individual advocacy, and helps families start POMC chapters in their communities. They also offer professional training for law enforcement, mental health providers, educators, and others to better understand and support those impacted by murder
105th Judicial District Attorney's Office
Assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation, Assistance with Victim Impact Statements, Assistance with Restitution, Criminal Justice Accompaniment, Follow - up, Information & Referral, Other, Protective Orders, Safety Planning, Victim Advocacy
106th Judicial District Attorney's Office
Assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation, Assistance with Victim Impact Statements, Assistance with Restitution, Criminal Justice Accompaniment, Follow - up, Information & Referral, Other, Protective Orders, Safety Planning, Victim Advocacy
109th Judicial District Attorney's Office - Crane
Assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation, Assistance with Victim Impact Statements, Assistance with Restitution, Criminal Justice Accompaniment, Follow - up, Information & Referral, Other, Protective Orders, Safety Planning, Victim Advocacy
109th Judicial District Attorney's Office - Winkler
Assistance with Crime Victims' Compensation, Assistance with Victim Impact Statements, Assistance with Restitution, Criminal Justice Accompaniment, Follow - up, Information & Referral, Other, Protective Orders, Safety Planning, Victim Advocacy
You have the right to...
As a victim in Texas you fundamentally have rights in Texas as defined in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Article 56, Subchapter A, Crime Victims’ Rights, a victim of a violent crime is someone who: (1) has suffered bodily injury or death as a result of criminally injurious conduct, or who has been the victim of a crime involving sexual assault, kidnapping, or aggravated robbery; (2) is the close relative (spouse, parent, brother, sister, or adult child) or (3) is the guardian of a victim. As a victim of violent crime.
We’re Here for You at Every Stage
Whether you’re reporting a crime for the first time, navigating court proceedings, or seeking support after sentencing, you’ll find information and resources tailored to your needs. Select the stage that matches your situation to get started.
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