#INtheKnow: Protecting Victims of Crimes

#INtheKnow: Protecting Victims of Crimes

Tuesday, June 27, 2017

During the 2017 session, legislators passed a law that will help protect victims of certain crimes such as domestic violence or assault.

Senate Enrolled Act 239 states that if the release date of an offender is changed during the 40-day notification period, the Department of Corrections must notify the victim as soon as possible within 48 hours of the change.

In the past, victims would be notified of an offender’s release, but sometimes the date would change, causing victims to be unaware that the perpetrator had been released.

SEA 239 gives the DOC a sense of urgency to inform the victim of a change in release date as soon as possible. This law is a positive step in protecting victims’ rights and keeping them informed.

The law goes into effect July 1.

Click here to watch State Sen. Randy Head (R-Logansport) discuss the bill.