Crystal Matheson, once a victim of domestic violence and now a dedicated victims’ advocate, has transformed her harrowing experiences into a force for positive change.
Having navigated the justice system as a victim of crime, she is a strong supporter of Marsy’s Law in Georgia and understands the positive difference it is making for other victims in her state.
Can you describe what it was like for you as a crime victim in the Georgia court system?
Being a victim in the Georgia system, at least for me, was of course somewhere I never wanted to be. But I encountered wonderful and caring people all along the way who knew their jobs and did them well.
I felt like I was a human being and not just a case. Everyone tried their best to keep me informed and explain things so I could try to understand them, although I do not know if that is even possible for a regular person. But the point is, they tried.
One thing that stood out to me was the encouragement. They listened to how I felt.
What did you find to be the most frustrating aspect?
I think the unknown. Not knowing what might happen. Nothing is ever certain, and when that is coupled with the fear and anxiety that are already there from the trauma, it is extremely hard mentally.
Sometimes it feels like a victim has fewer rights in a court of law than the accused, who is assigned an attorney.
How do you believe Marsy’s Law for Georgia is helping crime victims in the state?
I believe that victims should be informed when there is movement within the correctional system, whether it is from facility to facility or a release.
No one should ever have the possibility of coming face-to-face with their assailant out of the blue. They should always be kept informed.
Do you have any words of encouragement for other crime victims?
I think of all the words of encouragement I have received. But if I use my own, it would be to never let “give up” be an option.
People may tell you you are strong, and you are, more than you know, but you do not feel like it. Do not give up because you do not feel like it.
Take the time to not feel like it. Cry, scream, pray. Whatever you need to do, but do not stay there. Give it a moment, but do not stay there. It does not mean that is the only moment you can have. Just have it, and then get up.
And I know it feels like you are alone at times. You are not.
Try to find some way to occupy yourself and put your focus on the good things. I believe there is more good than bad. Sometimes you have to purposefully work to find it.
I also believe what you feed grows. I fight every day to feed the good. Sometimes I win, and sometimes I do not. The point is to keep fighting.