Research has shown that people with mental illness, like many people with disabilities, are at a greater risk for victimization. ^[1]   People with mental illnesses have been shown to be vulnerable to sexual assault as well as other violent crimes. ^[2]      These crimes are also disproportionately unreported, probably because these victims fear reprisals or retribution from their abusers for coming forward or fear the police won't believe them. 

People with mental illness who have been victimized repeatedly may confuse events in their reports to law enforcement.  This confusion does not negate their victimization and the importance of investigating the crime.  In fact, people with mental illness may experience the trauma of victimization more acutely than other victims, partly because it triggers memories of past abuse.  This history of abuse is relevant to case investigation and should be explored. 

Unfortunately, when victims with mental illness do report their crimes, they are frequently viewed as unreliable witnesses and their cases are often dropped. Law enforcement must become more aware of the complexities of working with victims who have mental illness and should collaborate with their mental health partners to increase the reliability of evidence.  These professionals can help law enforcement sort out these complex issues and improve case outcomes.  Resources for responding to crime victims who have disabilities can be obtained through the Department of Justice's Office for Victims of Crime. ^[3]  

Law enforcement agencies should provide information to these victims about available services that can help reduce their vulnerability and promote positive contacts with the criminal justice system agents who can inform them of case progress.  Law enforcement can also work with consumers and their advocates to conduct crime prevention outreach.