The Crime Victim/Witness Coordinators in the County Attorney’s Office are responsible for informing and assisting victims and witnesses throughout the court process. They notify crime victims and witnesses of court hearings, answer their questions regarding the court process, and assist in the gathering of restitution and other important information for the Court’s review.

The Crime Victim/Witness Coordinators are Cherilyn Thompson and Monica Eskew. Cherilyn is primarily responsible for assisting victims involving crimes against property and non-domestic violence crimes. Monica Eskew is primarily responsible for assisting victims of crimes involving family violence or sexual assaults.

The roles of victims and witnesses begin when a crime occurs. Once the crime is reported, law enforcement initiates an investigation. Victims and witnesses may be called upon to assist in the investigation, and in the event charges are filed, to testify in court.

By bringing the offender to justice...

• The offender is held accountable for his or her actions;
• Others are discouraged from committing crimes;
• The offender is rehabilitated, if possible; and public safety is insured.

Other resources that may be of assistance:

A victim is not a formal party in a criminal prosecution; however, their interests and desires are taken into consideration along with broader social concerns within the confines of the law.
If a victim has suffered physical or psychological injury as a direct result of a crime, they may be entitled to Crime Victim Compensation. This program is funded through fines and penalties imposed on criminal offenders, not through tax dollars.
Restitution may be ordered for direct costs resulting from a crime (medical bills, property repair, counseling costs, etc.).