25 Years of Victims' Rights Act

Celebrations around the state are occurring this week to honor the 25th anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act. MPB’s Phoebe Judge reports on the broad implications that federal act has had on victims in Mississippi.

Carla Todd is standing before a small crowd in front of the federal courthouse in Gulfport. Todd’s son was murdered at their home in 2001 as he was turning the lights off on the Christmas tree. He died in his mother’s arms. Todd is taking part in one a number of celebrations around the state commemorating the Victims of Crime Act. In 1984, the Victims of Crime Act was passed establishing a dedicated funding stream for victim services and victim compensation paid for directly by fines from convicted criminals,

“After I lost my son I was contacted and offered counseling, any type of financial help I would need. They followed me, they stayed with me through the trial.”

The Victims of Crime Act takes into account not only the victim, but the rippling effect the crime or trauma has on those around the victim. Ron Rychlak, associated dean at University of Mississippi’s School of Law says the groundbreaking act brought victims’ in off the sidelines,

“This tries to bring the victim in for a little bit more participation, beyond just being a witness, keep the victim involved, and give the victim the opportunity at least to recoup some of the losses.”

Over two million dollars in compensation was awarded last year to victims of crimes in the state. Funding through the Victims of Crime Act also supports programs such as domestic violence shelters, homicide support groups, and victims’ advocates with U.S. Attorney and FBI Offices throughout Mississippi.