Contact Information
Address:
Courthouse
191 East Main Street
Abingdon VA, 24210
P: (276) 676-4200
F: or (276) 676-6293
E: victim.witness@washcova.com
Useful Links
Victim Assistance Program
Commonwealth's Attorney Office
The Victim Assistance Program, administered by the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney, helps to insure that crime victims and witnesses receive fair and compassionate treatment while participating in the criminal justice system. If you are a victim or a witness of a crime, your role is vital to the court process. Many victims and witnesses are not familiar with the criminal justice system. The focus of the Program is to acquaint victims and witnesses with the criminal justice system including specific case information, court procedures, and final disposition.
If you are the victim of a crime please use the links below to find information on your rights, and on getting help from our office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Any person who is a victim of or witness to a crime committed in Washington County may use the services provided by this Program.
Crisis Intervention- Counseling, reassurance, and support following the crime.Emergency Assistance- Referral for assistance to meet the immediate needs of victims for food, clothing, and shelter. Direct assistance to replace broken locks or windows to better insure safety following a crime (limited funds-1st come, 1st serve basis). Aids to overcoming obstacles to appearing in court (transportation, baby-sitting).
Restitution Information- Aid victims in pursuit of court-ordered restitution.
Employer/School Intercession- If conflicts arise in obtaining time away from work or school, you may request assistance from this Program.
Victim Impact Statements- In felony cases, if the defendant is found guilty, the judge may withhold sentencing until a pre-sentence investigation is completed. This report provides information to the judge about the defendant’s background and how the crime has impacted your life.
Crime Victims Compensation- Assistance in preparing and submitting the required application in order to receive compensation from the state for designated expenses incurred as a result of crime. Victims of violent crime, or their survivors, may be eligible for financial compensation for out-of-pocket medical expenses, psychological counseling, lost wages, or funeral expenses. Expenses covered by insurance are not covered.
Notification Assistance- If you would like to be notified when the defendant bonds out of jail or is otherwise released or transferred, please contact the Program office.
Personal Property Held as Evidence- You may call to gain information concerning the possibility of recovering your personal property.
Threats or Harassment- You may call the Program office if you receive crime-related threats or harassment.
Notification of Your Rights as a Crime Victim- Contact the Program office for a complete explanation of the 1995 Virginia Victims’ Bill of Rights.
An information brochure concerning the Program is available for download (PDF format).Click Here For Brochure