Your Rights as a Crime Victim in Scioto County: Which Rights Are Automatic and Which You Must Request
Some crime-victim rights in Scioto County kick in automatically. Others only apply once you ask. Here's how to tell the difference, plus what to request and when.
As a crime victim in Scioto County, you're automatically entitled to be told your rights. You also have the right to receive case status updates without asking, so you won't be left wondering what's happening.
Safety: You are automatically entitled to reasonable protection from the accused, or anyone acting on the accused’s behalf.
Some notifications don't happen unless you ask. In Scioto County, you must specifically request notice of the offender's arrest, escape, or release. If you want these alerts, take action to request them. One common option is registering for automated notifications (covered below).
- Get the Victim Rights Request Form. The law enforcement agency investigating the offense is required to give you this form.
- Make your requests on the form. Use it to request the rights that are not automatic, including arrest, escape, or release notices.
- Review it with the prosecutor within 7 days. The prosecutor must review the form with you within seven days of the start of the prosecution.
You don't have to handle this alone. You can designate a victim's representative to exercise your rights on your behalf, or alongside you. That way, you still have support when decisions are being made and updates come through.
Vinelink Registration
- ✓ Register with VINELink to get automated notifications about a defendant’s or offender’s release or escape from jail or prison.
- ✓ Use VINELink by phone at (866) 277-7477.
- ✓ Choose the type of alerts you want, texts, calls, or emails.
- ✓ Remember, arrest, escape, and release notice is a right you must request, VINELink is one way to receive those notices.
If you need language support, you have the right to a foreign language or American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter at no cost. This applies to all court proceedings, meetings with the prosecutor, and investigative proceedings.
Checklist Submit Update
- ✓ Ask the investigating law enforcement agency for the Victim Rights Request Form if you have not been given one.
- ✓ Use the form to request arrest, escape, or release notices if you want them.
- ✓ Make sure the prosecutor reviews the form with you within seven days of the start of the prosecution.
- ✓ Keep your contact information current so you can receive case-status information and any notices you requested.
If something isn't happening: Contact the prosecutor assigned to the case if a requested right isn't being honored or your form hasn't been reviewed on time. Keep your contact information current so messages and updates actually reach you.
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