County attorney’s office expands assistance for victims

     The Winnebago County Attorney’s Office has added a new position to provide support for victims of crimes. Rachel Olson of Lake Mills is the new Victim Witness Coordinator for the county, and she started her duties in late July.

     In her position, Olson explains that she will contact victims of crimes – whether it be a burglary, sexual assault, domestic violence, etc. – to let them know their rights. She says she will keep victims updated about the court cases, and she can also be a resource for them. She can put victims in touch with counseling services, and she can help them if they need to find housing or a local food bank.

     Olson can also help victims receive assistance through the Crime Victim Compensation Program. This is a program offered through the state of Iowa that compensates victims for certain out-of-pocket expenses resulting from a crime, including medical care, counseling and lost wages. Olson says the program is funded through court fines that are paid by defendants.

     “Basically, I just listen to victims and help them through the legal process,” said Olson. “It’s not something people do every day. There are a lot of different things along the way.” She says she’s already been in contact with quite a few victims in her first two months on the job.

     See story in this week's Tribune.