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Children or young people, do you suspect that you have fallen victim to a crime?

Crimes can occur in everyday situations and environments, at home, at school, during the spare time and online. The crimes can, for example, be different forms of violence or targeted on property. It can be difficult to identify a crime. Anyone can fall victim to a crime and it is not always possible to prevent the situations.

  • What happened is not your fault
  • The perpetrator is always responsible for his/her actions
  • The experience can cause different feelings, like shame, fear and guilt
  • All reactions are normal
  • No one must tolerate any kind of harassment or threats
  • It is important not to be left alone with the experience
  • Tell a trusted adult about what happened
  • Do not hesitate to ask for help

You should always ask for help if you suspect a crime. You do not have to know the classification of the crime. It is enough if a situation has made you feel bad or given you the feeling that something is wrong.

In sex offences, for example, it does not matter if you initially were participating in the discussion, sending pictures or agreed to meet.  The perpetrator is always responsible for his/her actions.

You should also ask for help when you suspect that a friend has fallen victim of a crime or if you have witnessed a crime.

Examples of crimes against children and young people:

  • Assault (e.g. beating)
  • Defamation (e.g. spreading of false information)
  • Dissemination of information violating personal privacy (e.g. dissemination of private information)
  • Rape (e.g. forcing into a sexual act)
  • Sexual harassment (e.g. sexual touching)
  • Sexual abuse of a child (e.g. showing genitals to a child)
  • Criminal damage (e.g. damaging property)

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