If you are a victim of crime, the aftershocks can be felt for a while. The Ohio Crime Victims Compensation Program is one resource that can help victims recover.

The program, administered by Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray’s office, helps to offset some of the expenses that come up when dealing with the aftermath of a crime. The fund may compensate eligible victims and/or survivors up to $50,000. 

Who may be eligible?
Innocent victims of violent crime, or their surviving family members, may be eligible to have expenses covered by the program. If you are a parent or guardian of a victim, and you are responsible for that person’s finances, you may also be eligible. In order to qualify, a police report must be filed within 72 hours of the crime and the victim must cooperate with the investigation.

People not eligible for compensation include anyone convicted of a felony, child endangering or domestic violence offense for the 10 years before the crime occurred, or someone who commits one of those crimes while the claim is pending with this office. Anyone who engaged in misconduct that caused or contributed to injuries related to the claim also is not eligible under Ohio law.

What can payments cover?
As “payer of last resort,” the fund can only make payments if all other potential sources have been used. For instance, if a victim has medical insurance, the fund may be able to pay outstanding medical bills, but only after the health insurance company has exhausted what it will pay.

The fund can pay for counseling for victims and the immediate family members of homicide, sexual assault or domestic violence victims. It also can help make up for lost wages for those who are unable to work because of the crime. Funeral and burial expenses, as well as the costs for certain family members of a deceased victim to attend court proceedings, may also be covered. It cannot cover pain and suffering or lost or stolen property.  

How is compensation funded?
Taxpayers do not pay for victim compensation. Instead, compensation is funded by various fees and penalties assessed to offenders in both Ohio and federal courts.

Links

Apply for compensation – Ohio Attorney General's Office
   
Find a victim services provider - Ohio Attorney General's Office

Crime victims compensation palm card - Ohio Attorney General's Office