The Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) signed an agreement with the Montreal Crime Victims Assistance Centre (CAVAC) Wednesday that aims to enhance support to victims of financial crime.

The agreement allows AMF staff to refer victims directly to the CAVAC, in an effort to bolster the support offered to victims of economic crime.

“Our caseworkers are trained to offer front-line psycho-socio-legal services to victims of financial crime,” said Jenny Charest, the head of Montréal CAVAC. “This agreement with the AMF will allow us to reach and assist sometimes vulnerable clients who may be reluctant to ask for help despite the impacts of victimization.”

“Our no-charge and confidential services are available to victims who would like support, whether or not the perpetrator is identified, apprehended, prosecuted or convicted. Our services are based on victims’ needs and provided at the pace that’s best for them,” added Charest.

Mario Albert, president and CEO of the AMF, said that “through a closer relationship with Montréal CAVAC, a recognized organization with specialized caseworkers, victims of economic crime will have better access to services and support adapted to their needs.”