Information for Crime Victims

VICTIM/WITNESS ASSISTANCE SERVICE

The prosecutor’s Victim-Witness Assistance Service provides information, referrals, crisis intervention, courtroom support, and escort to crime victims.

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CASE STATUS INFORMATION

Victims are notified by letter when a case has been charged and, upon request, are notified when court dates are scheduled. Victim Advocates can explain the criminal justice system and answer questions about a case. For case status, visit the Legal Information Network Exchange at https://linxonline.co.pierce.wa.us/

VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENTS

Victims in charged cases receive a Victim Impact Statement form. You can write about the emotional, financial and personal impact that a crime had on you and your family. The Victim Impact Statement is reviewed by the judge prior to sentencing and becomes part of the court record. A Victim Advocate can assist you in preparing this statement. In addition, victims can address the court at sentencing, at the judge’s discretion.


RESTITUTION

The Court can order a defendant to pay restitution as part of their sentence. Restitution is money the offender pays to reimburse a victim for medical bills, property damage, and other financial losses resulting from the crime. Documentation of your losses will be requested in charged cases, and this information will be presented to the judge. Restitution payments are paid by the defendant to the Clerk of the Court (253) 798-7460. The Clerk then sends a check to the victim.  It is important that the Clerk’s Office be advised of any change in your address.

Victims may also pursue their losses in civil court by contacting a private attorney or Small Claims Court (253) 798-7487.

CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION

Crime Victim Compensation is a state program that provides financial, medical and mental health benefits to victims of violent crime. This agency helps pay expenses not covered by the victim’s insurance, as well as wage loss and temporary or permanent disability. There is no provision in this law to compensate victims for stolen or damaged property. Crime Victims Compensation forms may be requested by calling 1-800-762-3716 or may be obtained from the Victim/Witness Assistance Service. Advocates are available to help you complete the application form.

HIV ANTIBODY TEST NOTIFICATION

In some cases, the Court may order a defendant to submit to an HIV antibody test. The victims in those cases may obtain the test results by contacting the Tacoma-Pierce Co. Health Dept. (253) 798-3805.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Victim Advocates are familiar with social service agencies in the community that can assist you; they are available to help you and make referrals as needed.

VINE PROGRAM

When an offender is held at the Pierce County Jail, victims may receive updates through the VINE program. VINE is a free, anonymous, computer-based service where anyone can see if an offender is currently in custody. In addition, victims may choose to register for an automated call, text, or email when an inmate is released. To reach VINE, call 1-877-846-3492.

VICTIM WITNESS NOTIFICATION

The state operates two notification systems. Victims or witnesses in certain felony crimes may request notification if a prisoner is released, is transferred to work release, or if they escape. This is a Dept. of Corrections program, 1-800-322-2201.

A similar program by the Dept. of Social & Health Services tracks individuals residing in a state psychiatric hospital, a state juvenile rehabilitation facility, or the Special Commitment Center for sexually violent predators, 1-800-422-1536

PROPERTY RELEASE

A victim’s property that has been held as evidence may be released 30 days after the offender is sentenced, if no appeal is filed. You may contact the appropriate law enforcement agency to arrange for the release of property.

MESSAGE FROM THE PIERCE COUNTY
PROSECUTING ATTORNEY

Robnett_Headshot

Victims’ rights are a priority for our office.

You have a right to accurate information about your case and a right to be heard at sentencing. Our victim/witness advocates are available to provide information about cases, answer questions, and give emotional support.

Our deputy prosecutors, victim/witness advocates, and legal assistants are all here to serve the community. Please let us know if there is anything else we can do to assist you.

Sincerely,
Mary Robnett
Prosecuting Attorney

Additional Contacts:

Pierce County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office
Victim/Witness Assistance Service
(253) 798-7400

Pierce County Sheriff’s Office
Emergency: 911
Information: (253) 798-4721

Mental Health Crisis Line
1-800-576-7764

Rebuilding Hope! Sexual Assault Center
of Pierce County
(253) 474-7273

Crystal Judson Family Justice Center 
Domestic Violence Helpline
(253) 798-4166

State Office of Crime Victim Advocacy
1-800-822-1067

State Crime Victim Compensation
1-800-762-3716

For information on U visas or T visas,
please see our website at:
https://www.pierceprosecutor.org