Nassau County Creates New Office Of Crime Victim Advocate

In preparation of New York State's new disclosure requirements that go into effect on Jan. 1, Nassau County Executive Laura Curran signed into law yesterday legislation that creates a new Office of Crime Victim Advocate.

“Crime is at historic lows and the continued safety of our residents is my top priority. These new untested criminal justice reforms go into effect next week and I have our residents’ best interest in mind while we transition to these new procedures," Curran said. "The new Office of Crime Victim Advocate will offer legal assistance and support to victims and witnesses who may be affected under the new law. We have taken great measures to protect anyone who may be affected by these new reforms, ensuring no one in Nassau will be left vulnerable at the County level.”

The Office of Crime Victim Advocate will help to protect victims and witnesses of crimes as well as assist them with navigating their cases. The victim's advocate office will have a budget of $890,000 a year. The services of the office will include:

• Providing legal assistance to victims or witnesses of crimes who are served with judicial orders to show cause by criminal defendants to gain access to their home or place of business
• Providing legal assistance with any victim compensation applications
• Providing legal assistance to any victim or witness related to the newly enacted New York State criminal justice reform laws
• Providing information on victim’s and witness’ legal rights and protections with regards to criminal process
• Assisting victims to submit comments to court and parole boards
• Coordinating with the Nassau County District Attorney’s office

“This newly enacted bill will assist with coordination with the Police Department and District Attorney’s Office, which will help protect the rights of our victims and witnesses," said Nassau County Police commissioner Patrick Ryder. "We will continue this effort as it is extremely important to have their cooperation and that they individually feel their rights are protected as we move forward in court proceedings.”

In addition to the Office of Crime Victim Advocate, the county has been preparing for the new laws for months. The county also has stepped up staffing at the District Attorney’s office and the Department of Probation in order to ensure victims of crimes are fully protected and to manage pre-trial services.