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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) -- Ten years ago, the state started its reparations program for victims of violent crime. Since then, says Office of Crime Victim Reparations director more than $50 million dollars has been paid out.
Gordon says the state can't cover all expenses, but the primary mission is to provide at least some measure of relief.
After the office receives an application for aid, a reparations officer requests a police report and begins investigating the victim's claim. Gordon says his staff tries to complete investigations within 30 days.
The maximum payout for many crimes is $25,000 and up to $50,000 for those affected by homicide or victims of attempted homicide and some other crimes.
In some cases, Gordon says, the state compensates for funeral expenses and up to 85 percent of a victim's medical expenses.
Of more than 6,000 applications received yearly, about 20 percent are denied.
Information from: The Salt Lake Tribune
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
