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FROM THE DESK OF TOMMY ROUNTREE, DISTRICT ATTORNEY
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Greetings to all the Citizens of Blount County:
During my campaign for District Attorney, I promised that I would keep you informed. I would like to take this opportunity to address the rights of victims of crime.
Did you know that in 1996 the Alabama Legislature passed a law giving Crime Victims rights?
Section 15-23-60 of the Code of Alabama states that within 72 hours after the crime is reported to law enforcement authorities, the responding law enforcement agency is required to provide you with the following:
1. A list of available local emergency and crisis services.2. Information on the availability of compensation benefits for victims.3. The name and telephone number of the agency or officer handling your case.4. Information about the steps involved in a criminal prosecution.5. A summary of your rights as a victim and the forms you need in order to take advantage of your rights.6. Information concerning your eligibility for restitution and compensation.7. Information as to what you should do if you are being threatened or intimidated.8. The name and telephone number of the District Attorney's Office.
Did you know that your District Attorney's Office has a specially trained professional whose job is to assist you if you are a victim of crime?
In each District Attorney's Office in Alabama there is one or more Victim Service Officers (VSO). The VSO will give you information about your rights and help you assert them. The VSO will tell you about agencies and organizations that can provide help and assistance to aid you in dealing with some of the personal issues that inevitably affect you and your family. The VSO will explain the court process as the case progresses. You will be informed as to what you may do to "tell your side" to the judge. The role of the law enforcement agency, the prosecution steps, the trial, sentencing and the appeal process will be explained to you. Your VSO will be present with you in Court and make sure that you are protected from spectators, witnesses, the press, lawyers and other individuals that you might not want to come into contact with you. The VSO will explain your rights concerning what happens after the case is over and when the person who committed the crime about you becomes eligible for parole. If you are physically or emotionally unable to be involved in the judicial process, then the VSO can assist you in naming a person to represent you.
Did you know that you have a right to be told about court dates and hearings and to be informed of any agreement (plea bargain) to settle the case?
The law requires that you be informed of the terms of a plea agreement or "settlement" and that you have the right to be present at the time any settlement is finalized. This is another responsibility of the VSO who will make sure that you understand the agreement and have a chance to talk to the prosecutor handling the case.
Did you know that the Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission is there to help you?
As a victim of crime, you may be eligible to receive reimbursement for some of your expenses if you meet the following requirements:
You have been injured as a result of criminal conduct.You are the dependent of a deceased victim, if that victim died as a result of the crime.You did not cause or contribute to the criminal conduct.You file your application within one year of the incident.The incident was reported to law enforcement within 72 hours.You have fully cooperated with law enforcement officials.Your economic loss has not been paid by other sources. TOMMY ROUNTREE DISTRICT ATTORNEY
41st Judicial Court
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