What is generally included in a victim impact statement?

A victim impact statement primarily focuses on articulating the emotional, psychological, and physical effects of the crime on the victim and their loved ones. This statement allows the victim to express how the crime has affected their life, including any trauma experienced, changes in mental health, or physical injuries sustained as a result of the criminal act. It serves as a powerful tool in the criminal justice process, especially during sentencing, helping the court understand the true impact of the crime beyond the legal definitions.

In contrast, while the other choices may present relevant information in certain legal contexts, they do not align with the core purpose of a victim impact statement. The criminal history of the offender does not pertain to the victim's experience. Similarly, while the life story of the victim might provide context, it is more focused on the consequences of the crime itself rather than the victim's broader background. Financial details of the crime could be relevant in discussions of restitution but do not capture the personal effects the crime has had on the victim's day-to-day life. Thus, option C is most aligned with the intent of a victim impact statement.