Victim Assistance

If you are an alleged victim of crime in Anderson County, you are not alone.

This page is designed to be a central, trusted source of information for alleged victims of crimes and for agencies that serve victims. It provides plain‑language guidance about your rights, available protections, and local and statewide resources.

All information provided here is free to access.

Click here for a PDF version of the content on this page.  

Remember

  • If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
  • If you are in emotional or mental distress, call or text 988.
  • You deserve help, safety, and support — and you don’t have to go through this alone.

Ways to Enhance Your Safety

Tennessee law now allows electronic (ankle) monitoring for individuals arrested for Aggravated Domestic Assault.

Important information for victims:

  • Electronic monitoring is a court-ordered condition; it does not replace safety planning
  • An ankle monitor is not a substitute for a personal safety plan
  • Judges may set exclusion zones (areas the offender is not allowed to enter)
  • Victims are alerted if the offender enters a court-ordered exclusion area
  • Although the monitoring company notifies the appropriate law enforcement agency, victims should call 911 every time an alert occurs
  • Monitoring does not automatically prevent contact; immediate reporting is critical
  • REMINDER: if you have an app on your phone regarding GPS notification, you must keep your phone charged to get notifications

If electronic monitoring has been ordered in your case and you have questions, you may:

To receive timely court notices and safety‑related updates, it is critical that your phone number, email, and mailing address are current.

If your contact information changes while court cases are pending, notify:
For criminal cases:
Victim Witness Coordinator
7th Judicial District Attorney’s Office
📞 865‑457‑5640

For civil cases (including Orders of Protection):
Contact the court where your case is set to inform the clerks of your updated information.
Anderson County Family Justice Center
📞 865‑298‑3129
🌐 https://www.fjcanderson.org

VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) is a free, secure, and confidential way to access custody status and criminal case information. Register for notifications and stay informed.
● Released from custody
● Escapes custody
You can register anonymously.
🔗 Tennessee VINE / SAVIN: https://vinelink.vineapps.com/state/TN 

Below is a list with links to other registries in Tennessee that help victims check safety risk and stay informed.

Felony Offender Information (FOIL) App

Link to myTN appThe Felony Offender Information (FOIL) tool provides free public access to information about individuals who are or have been in the custody of the Tennessee Department of Correction. Users can view an offender’s current status, location, photo, and active sentences. For official statewide background checks, contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (fees apply).

To access the tool, download the MyTN app. After opening the app, select the Public Safety tab and choose Felony Offender Information to access the tool.

Victim Rights in Tennessee

Under Tennessee law, crime victims have specific rights, including:

  • The right to confer with the prosecution.
  • The right to be free from intimidation, harassment and abuse throughout the criminal justice system.
  • The right to be present at all proceedings where the defendant has the right to be present.
  • The right to be heard, when relevant, at all the critical stages of the criminal justice process as defined by the General Assembly.
  • The right to be informed of all proceedings, and of the release, transfer or escape of the accused or convicted person, if requested.
  • The right to a speedy trial or disposition and a prompt and final conclusion of the case after conviction or sentence.
  • The right to restitution from the offender.
  • The right to be informed of each of the rights established for victims.

As a victim, you also have the right, if requested, to be notified when a defendant posts bond on your case. You must call the jail to request notification: 865-457-7100.

🔗 Tennessee Victims’ Rights Information: https://www.attorney-general.com/victims-rights/

Orders of Protection (OP)

An Order of Protection is a civil court order designed to help protect victims from abuse, threats, stalking, or sexual assault.

  • Victims may receive assistance applying for an Order of Protection at the Anderson County Family Justice Center with the support of trained advocates, or they may obtain the required forms and file independently through Chancery Court or General Sessions Division II.
  • A judge may issue a temporary (ex parte) order the same day
  • If an ex parte order is not granted, this does NOT mean you will not be granted a permanent (one‑year) Order of Protection
  • If no ex parte is issued, you will still be given a court date for a hearing, where both parties may appear and the judge will decide whether to grant a permanent Order of Protection
  • A court hearing will be scheduled for both parties

🔗 Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts – OP Forms:
 https://www.tncourts.gov/programs/self-help-center/forms/order-protection-forms

  • No contact (in person, phone, text, email, or social media)
  • Stay away (from you, your work and property)
  • Removal of the offender from a shared residence or for them to provide other suitable housing for you if married)
  • Temporary custody of children
  • Personal Conduct (to not cause intentional damage to property or interfere with utilities, and to not threaten or hurt animals you own)
  • Child support or petitioner support (if married)
  • Counseling/Substance Abuse Programs
  • Custody of pets owned by petitioner, respondent or children.
  • Firearm surrender (mandatory)
  • Transfer the billing responsibility for and rights to wireless telephone number(s)
  • Other safety‑related conditions

  • There is no cost to file an Order of Protection in Tennessee
  • You will need to show proof of identity when filing an Order of Protection
  • If you decide to dismiss or drop the Order of Protection after filing, court costs may be assessed, whether or not you attend the hearing
  • An advocate can help explain potential costs and answer questions before your court date

  • Both parties will likely be present at the hearing
  • The respondent (or the respondent’s attorney) will have an opportunity to testify
  • The respondent or their attorney may ask you questions
  • You or your attorney will also have an opportunity to ask the respondent questions
  • The judge may ask questions of either party

Tips for Testifying: 

https://www.attorney-general.com/going-to-court/

If a judge grants a temporary (ex parte) Order of Protection, it goes into effect immediately.  immediately upon the judge signing it and the respondent being served, providing urgent, short-term protection until a full court hearing within 15 days, where it’s either extended or dissolved

What an ex parte Order of Protection can help with:

  • Orders the respondent to have no contact with you
  • May require the respondent to leave a shared residence
  • Can include temporary custody or other safety‑related conditions
  • Provides immediate, short‑term protection until the court hearing

Important safety information:

  • An ex parte order is temporary and remains in effect until the court hearing
  • An arrest is generally not made solely based on the ex parte order; enforcement authority increases once a permanent (one‑year) Order of Protection is granted
  • Call 911 if the respondent comes near you, your home, or your workplace, whether or not they have been formally served

Calling 911 can help keep you safe:

  • Law enforcement can require the respondent to leave
  • If the respondent has not yet been served, officers may be able to serve them at that time
  • Carrying an extra copy of your ex parte order can be helpful, as officers can often use it to confirm the order and complete service

After a Permanent (One-Year) Order of Protection Is Granted

  • Keep a copy of the order with you at all times
  • Provide copies to schools, workplaces, or childcare providers if appropriate
  • Review safety planning with an advocate

If the Order Is Violated

  • Call 911 immediately
  • Violations are criminal offenses
  • Report the violation even if you are unsure

Granted

If the judge grants a Permanent Order of Protection, it means the court has determined that abuse, stalking, sexual assault, or credible threats occurred and that ongoing protection is necessary.

How Long the Order Lasts

  • In Tennessee, a Permanent Order of Protection is typically granted for up to one year.
  • Before it expires, you can request that the order be extended or renewed if you still feel unsafe.
  • You do not have to wait until the order expires to ask the court for help if circumstances change.

Enforcement and Violations

  • The order is enforceable statewide and entered into law enforcement databases.
  • If the respondent violates the order, call 911 immediately.
  • Violating an Order of Protection is a criminal offense in Tennessee and can result in arrest, jail time, fines, or additional charges.
  • You do not have to prove intent—any violation counts.

Firearms Restrictions

  • Tennessee law allows the court to order the respondent to surrender firearms and ammunition.
  • Possessing a firearm while subject to an Order of Protection may also violate federal law.
  • If you believe the respondent still has access to weapons, tell law enforcement and your advocate.

Changing or Updating the Order

  • You can request a modification if something in the order no longer works for you (for example, custody exchanges or contact provisions).
  • Only a judge can change the order—verbal agreements do not override it.
  • Do not agree to contact that violates the order, even if the respondent initiates it.

Renewing the Order

  • You can request an extension before the order expires.
  • You do not need a new incident of abuse to request renewal—ongoing fear or safety concerns may be enough.
  • An advocate can help you with paperwork and court preparation.

Your Safety Still Matters

An Order of Protection is a powerful legal tool, but it does not guarantee safety. Consider:

  • Keeping a copy of the order with you at all times
  • Sharing the order with your workplace, school, or childcare provider if needed
  • Continuing to work with an advocate on a personalized safety plan

Resources

As of January 1, Tennessee has implemented a Domestic Violence Offender Registry.

What this means for victims:

  • Certain offenders convicted of qualifying domestic violence offenses may be listed
  • The registry is intended to promote accountability and public safety
  • Being listed does not replace protective orders or safety planning

Advocates at the Anderson County Family Justice Center can help explain how this registry applies to your situation and what steps may help enhance safety.

Child Advocacy Center
www.childadvocacycenter.net
752 N. Main St., Clinton, TN 37716
865-463-2740

The Child Advocacy Center of Anderson County provides a safe, child-friendly setting where children can receive a forensic interview, medical evaluation, and therapy services in one location. Victim advocates are also available to support caregivers with Criminal Injury Compensation and community resource referrals.

Report Child Abuse –Key Details for Reporting:

  • Online Portal: https://apps.tn.gov/carat/
  • Emergency: Call 911 immediately for life-threatening situations.
  • Confidentiality: Reports can be made anonymously, but providing contact info helps investigators.
  • Process: Reports are reviewed by DCS, and it may take up to 24 hours to process.
  • Scope: Used for suspected abuse/neglect of children under 18 by parents, caretakers, or other adults.

Child Advocacy Center Services

  • Forensic Interviews-A structured conversation with a specially trained professional who talks with the child in a safe, age-appropriate way to understand what happened. This helps reduce the number of times a child has to tell their story.
  • Advocacy-Support and guidance for children and caregivers throughout the process. Advocates help answer questions, explain next steps, and connect families to helpful resources.
  • Family Support-Ongoing assistance for caregivers, including emotional support, information about the system, and help navigating available services.
  • Coordination with Law Enforcement-Collaboration with law enforcement and child protection professionals to ensure cases are handled appropriately while minimizing additional stress on the child.
  • Therapy Referrals-Connections to trauma-informed counseling services to help children and families begin the healing process.

The Tennessee Criminal Injuries Compensation Program may help victims with expenses related to violent crime, including:

  • Medical and counseling costs
  • Lost wages
  • Funeral expenses

🔗 Criminal Injuries Compensation Program:
 https://treasury.tn.gov/Services/Criminal-Injuries-Compensation

ACFJC staff can help victims complete and submit applications.

Safe at Home Tennessee helps victims keep their physical address confidential to reduce the risk of being located by an abuser.

🔗 Safe at Home Tennessee:
 https://www.tn.gov/safety/homeland-security/safe-at-home.html

Important information:

  • This program is only available within 30 days of moving
  • If you are close to the 30‑day deadline, contact an advocate as soon as possible

Important:
 ACFJC staff are certified to assist with Safe at Home applications.

The following shelters provide 24‑hour emergency services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Availability, accommodations, and eligibility vary by program. Calling as soon as you think you may need safe shelter is recommended.

Name of OrganizationPhone NumberAddressWebsiteFeatures
Abuse Alternatives423-764-2289Bristol, TNN/AEmergency shelter; Shared rooms; Communal kitchen and bathrooms
Avalon Center931-456-0747196 10th St, Crossville, TN 38555avaloncentertn.org24-hour emergency shelter for domestic violence and sexual assault; Men, women, children accepted; No pets; 12 beds, rooms are not private
Community Health of East Tennessee (CHET)423-562-8325
After Hours: 423-871-3018 (ask for Robin)		Meet‑up location: Campbell County Sheriff’s Department, 610 Main Street, Jacksboro, TNchetn.org24-hour emergency shelter; Children accepted; No pets (emotional support animals accepted); Private rooms; 2-year program available
Family Crisis Center (McNabb Center)865-637-8000901 Summit Hill Dr. SE, Knoxville, TN 37915N/AEmergency shelter; Adults and children accepted; No pets
Family Resource Agency – Harbor SafehouseHotline: 423-476-3886
Office: 423-479-9339		Cleveland, TNN/AEmergency shelter for domestic violence
Haven House, Inc. (Blount County)865-983-6818 (#1)
Crisis Line: 865-982-1087		Meet‑up location: Blount County Justice CenterN/A24-hour emergency shelter; Men and women (men housed separately); Children accepted; Service animals only; Home-like environment; Communal bathrooms and common areas; Average stay 33 days
IVA’s Place865-816-3481Lenoir City, TNivasplace.org24-hour emergency shelter; Men and women (men housed separately); Children accepted; No pets
Knox Salvation Army Domestic Violence Shelter (The Joy D. Baker Center)865-525-9401 Ext. 106Knoxville, TNN/AEmergency shelter for domestic violence; 6-month transitional housing program available
Morning Star Sanctuary615-860-0188Serves victims from all Tennessee countiesN/AEmergency shelter for domestic violence
Partnership Family Violence Center423-755-2822Chattanooga, TNN/ADormitory-style rooms; Communal kitchen and bathrooms; Men accepted; Pets accepted; Initial stay up to 30 days (review for extension)
Safe Haven423-727-0202Johnson City, TNN/ADomestic violence shelter services
Safe SpaceShelter Screening Line: 800-244-5968
Local Offices: Dandridge: 865-397-8546
Newport: 423-237-6626
Sevierville: 865-453-9254		Serves victims from any county or stateN/AMen accepted under certain circumstances; No pets; Screening through 1‑800 number required
Serenity Shelter (KARM)865-673-6540Knoxville, TNN/ADomestic violence shelter services; 18-month program available
The H.O.P.E. Center423-745-5289Athens, TNthehopecenterinc.com24-hour emergency shelter; Men, women, children; Shared rooms; Service animals only (no emotional support animals)
Women Are Safe, Inc.931-729-9885
Hotline: 1-800-470-9117		Hickman County, TNN/AFully furnished shelter for domestic violence victims

Adult Protective Services

How do I report Elder Abuse?

Tennessee is a Mandatory Reporting state.  That means if a Tennessee resident even suspects an adult age 60 or over is being abused, law requires that person to report suspicions and/or evidence to Adult Protective Service. The person who reports may remain anonymous if so desired.

https://ReportAdultAbuse.dhs.tn.gov.

East Tennessee Human Resource Agency (ETHRA)

Anderson Main Office
125 Leinart St Ste 5, Clinton, TN 37716
Phone: (865) 457-3352
https://www.ethra.org/

Independent Living Services Available 

  • Who We Serve: Adults age 60+, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers.
  • In-Home & Community Support-Services that help individuals remain safely and independently at home, including homemaker support, care options (CHOICES), caregiver support, and information and referrals through the Area Agency on Aging and Disability.
  • Health & Wellness-Programs that promote healthy aging through health education, disease prevention, and Medicare counseling (SHIP & Senior Medicare Patrol).
  • Advocacy & Protection-Support for long-term care residents through the Ombudsman Program and court-appointed guardianship services for those unable to make decisions independently.
  • Transportation & Utilities Assistance-Public transit options and help with utility and heating costs (LIHEAP) and home weatherization.
  • Legal & Financial Support-Legal assistance for adults 60+ and limited support accessing public benefits and community programs.
  • Nutrition & Food Assistance-Home-delivered meals, group dining programs, SNAP, USDA Foods, and other food assistance resources.
  • Community Connections-Local Offices on Aging and Senior Centers offering support, activities, and information for older adults.

Collaborative Response to Elder and Vulnerable Adult Abuse (CREVAA)

https://www.ethra.org/programs/50/collaborative-response-to-elder-and-vulnerable-adult-abusecrevaa/

Contact: Rebecca Veazey, Program Manager
📧 CREVAA@ethra.org
📞 (865) 691-2551 ext. 4420

  • Who We Help: Tennesseans age 60+ and vulnerable adults ages 18–59 who have been victims of a crime within the past 120 days.
  • How We Help: CREVAA provides safety planning, emergency and limited financial assistance, in-home support, counseling referrals, and help navigating community and legal services.
  • Types of Abuse Covered: Physical, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse; neglect; exploitation; fraud; stalking; robbery; and other related crimes.

Anderson County Office on Aging & Senior Center

96 Mariner Point Dr, Clinton, TN 37716
(865) 457-3259
andersoncountytn.gov/office-on-aging-senior-center/

Provides information, assistance, outreach, referrals, and community programs for adults age 60+.

Victim Support Services

Anderson County Courts

Probation Offices:

Sexual Assault Center of East Tennessee – 800-255-9711

Local Law Enforcement:

Local Resource Navigation

United Way 2-1-1
 📱 Dial 211 or 865-215-4211

Call 2-1-1 to get help finding:

  • Mental health care
  • Victim services
  • Shelter, food, or financial help
  • Local support programs

The Anderson County Family Justice Center is a safe, welcoming place where victims can receive coordinated help in one location.

Who we serve:  Victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, stalking, and human trafficking.

Why seek services at the ACFJC?

  • Coordinated support from multiple agencies in one place
  • Help navigating the court system and victim rights
  • Assistance with Orders of Protection and safety planning
  • Help applying for state victim programs
  • Trauma‑informed, victim‑centered support

Important to know:

  • All services are FREE and confidential
  • No appointment is necessary

Contact Information
Anderson County Family Justice Center
301 Broadway Ave., Oak Ridge, TN 37830
📞 865‑298‑3129
🌐 https://www.fjcanderson.org

Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
No Appointment Necessary

Emergency Resource Guide

Knoxville, Knox County & Surrounding East Tennessee

If you are scared, overwhelmed, hurt, or unsure what to do next — help is available. You deserve support, safety, and care. This guide shares confidential resources for emergencies, emotional crises, and different types of victimization.

Call 911 right away if:

  • You are in immediate danger
  • Someone is being hurt or threatened
  • There is a medical emergency
  • A crime is happening right now

911 is for situations where police, fire, or medical help are needed immediately.

Call or text 988 anytime

You can contact 988 if you are:

  • Feeling overwhelmed, panicked, or hopeless
  • Having thoughts of harming yourself
  • Experiencing emotional pain, grief, or trauma
  • Unsure where to turn or just need someone to listen
  • Free and confidential
  • Available by call, text, or chat
  • You do not have to be suicidal to reach out

988 is a safe place to talk and get help without judgment.
 They can also help connect you to local crisis support if needed.

Tennessee Statewide Crisis Line (24/7)
 📱 1-855-274-7471

  • Talk with a trained crisis counselor
  • Help deciding next steps
  • Can connect you with local crisis response services

Sexual Assault Crisis Line – East Tennessee (24/7)
 📱 865-522-7273

  • Confidential support for survivors of sexual assault
  • Emotional support, advocacy, and help understanding options

Domestic Violence & Family Violence Support

  • Advocacy, safety planning, and support are available through:
    • Local Family Justice Centers
  • Advocates can help with safety plans, protection orders, and connections to services

You do not have to leave, report, or make decisions right away to receive help.

Community Health of East Tennessee
24-Hour Crisis Helpline
423-562-8325

These resources can help after a crisis or when you’re ready for ongoing care:

Ridgeview Behavioral Health Services
Comprehensive behavioral health services, including outpatient care, crisis services, and recovery support.
 📞 (865) 482-1076
240 W Tyrone Rd, Oak Ridge, TN 37830

McNabb Center – Main Line & Family Walk-In Center
 Region’s nonprofit provider of mental health, substance use, social, and victim services with a family walk-in crisis center.
 📞 Main intake: 1-800-255-9711
 📞 Family Walk-In Crisis: (865) 257-9982 (7 days / 8 a.m.–8 p.m.)
 📍 Multiple locations including services serving Anderson County (Knoxville area)

Community Health of East Tennessee, Inc.
 Local agency providing health, social, and community services, including clinic and support programs.
 📞 (423) 562-1705
130 Independence Ln, LaFollette, TN 37766

NAMI Oak Ridge/Anderson County
Local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness offering education, support groups, advocacy, and mental health resources.
📍 PO Box 4665, Oak Ridge, TN 37830
📞 (865) 466-1234
🌐 namioakridge.org

Contact Care Line (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
A free, confidential 24/7 crisis support service that connects you with trained counselors for emotional distress, mental health concerns, or thoughts of suicide. Call, text, or chat 988 to reach help when you need it.

Knoxville / Knox County Mobile Crisis Services (24/7)
 📱 865-539-2409

  • Support for adults and children in mental health crisis
  • In-person help is available when appropriate

Crisis Stabilization Unit (Knoxville)
 📱 865-541-6958

  • Short-term support for severe emotional distress

Crisis Text Line (24/7)
 📱 Text HOME to 741741

  • Free, confidential crisis support by text

Mental Health Association of East Tennessee – Education and referrals
(865) 584-9125
Email:  info@mhaet.com
The call center is opend Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Their staff can help connect people with treatment, support, and other resources that fit their needs, location, and insurance.

Anderson County Department of Veteran’s Services 
Website | 865-463-6803

Services Offered:

  • Benefits assistance
  • Claims support
  • Veteran advocacy
  • Resource referrals

Veterans Crisis Line
 📱 Call 988, then press 1

Confidential support for veterans, service members, and their families.

You Do Not Have to Navigate This Alone

Victimization can be overwhelming. Help is available.