Purpose of the Program
The purpose of the Crime Victims Compensation Act is to provide a method of compensation for victims of violent crime. All funds come from federal and state offenders through fines and penalty assessments. An arrest of the offender does NOT have to take place in order to be eligible to file a claim; however, the victim and/or claimant is expected to fully cooperate in the apprehension, investigation, and prosecution of the perpetrator.
History
The Crime Victims’ Compensation Program was created in 1981 with the passage of the Crime Victims’ Compensation Act. The Act established guidelines for eligibility and the provision of financial reimbursement to victims of crime. Program guidelines were established with the first payments being made for crimes that occurred after October 19, 1981. The Oklahoma District Attorneys Council has administered the fund since the inception of the program.