NCJ Number
162359
Date Published
1996
Length
0 pages
Annotation
Directed mainly to criminal justice personnel, this videotape provides basic information about crime victim compensation programs, eligibility requirements, benefits, and procedures.
Abstract
The film presents the perspectives of victims, victims' family members, victim service program directors, and a police officer. It emphasizes that victims are unaware of victim services and that it is the responsibility of criminal justice personnel to remind them of the availability of services. Victim compensation programs operate in every State to help pay costs such as medical bills, counseling, lost wages, funerals, and dependents' lost support. These programs are for victims of violence such as assault, rape, domestic violence, and drunk driving. They do not compensate victims of property crimes. They pay only when no other source of payment is available. Funds come from fines on offenders. Victims need frequent reminders of these programs, because they may not remember what they are initially told. Many States require police to inform victims about the programs.