The Asheville Police Department is committed to ensuring that anyone affected by crime feels safe and supported. Our Victim Services Unit includes two dedicated advocates who provide confidential support to victims, witnesses, and their families.

How Advocates Can Help You

If you have been a victim of a crime in Asheville and reported it to the police, these services are free and private:

  • Helping you create a plan to stay safe, sometimes called a safety plan.
  • Connecting you to places that can help with emergency food, clothing, shelter, or rides.
  • Connecting you with therapists or support groups.
  • Giving you information on the investigation and if the suspect is in jail.
  • Helping you understand the legal system and going with you to meetings or interviews.
  • Helping you apply for victim’s compensation, if it applies to your case.
  • Helping you get items stored by the police.

Protection Orders (Restraining Orders)

If you or your child are being harmed, stalked, or threatened, you can petition the court for protection:

  1. 50B Order: Protection from family members or intimate partners.

  2. 50C Order: Protection from strangers or neighbors (specifically for stalking or sexual assault).

Need help applying? Contact the Victim Services team or visit the Buncombe County Family Justice Center.

Victim Compensation

You may be eligible for financial assistance to cover medical bills, counseling costs, funeral expenses, or lost wages if you were a victim of a crime.

The Victim Services team is available to guide you through this application process.

Community Resources

Resource
Best for
Phone Number
Buncombe County Family Justice Center All-in-one services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and elder abuse (828) 250-6900
Our VOICE 24-hour sexual assault crisis line (828) 255-7576
Helpmate 24-hour domestic violence crisis line (828) 254-0516
Mobile Crisis 24-hour mental health crisis support (888) 573-1066
United Way Finding local community resources Dial 211
Pisgah Legal Free or low-cost legal advice for low-income clients (non-criminal cases) (828) 253-0406
Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM) Crisis, shelter, medical, and jail ministries  (828) 259-5300
Buncombe County Department of Social Services (DSS) Medicaid, food stamps, and emergency services (828) 250-5500

Contact Us

The Victim Services Unit is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Raine Harrison

Tammy Jones