epcounty.com - District Attorney - Victim Assistance Program

District Attorney - 34th Judicial District

Victim Assistance Program
Many victims of crime find the criminal justice system a frightening and intimidating process. My office is here to provide you information, assistance, and support. We want to inform you of your rights and hope that you will contact us with your questions and concerns. To speak with trained and caring victim advocates in my office, call (915) 546-2091 or contact me by e-mail at:
daesparza@epcounty.com
WHAT TO DO WHEN CRIME HURTS YOU!
A victim of violent crime has the right to:
Adequate protection from harm and threats of harm arising from cooperation with prosecution efforts.
Consideration of safety by the magistrate when setting bail
Advance notice, on request, of relevant court proceedings, including cancellations and rescheduling
Information, on request, from a peace officer on the defendant's rights to bail and criminal investigation procedures, and from the procedutor's office about general procedures in the criminal justice system, including plea agreements, restitution, appeals and parole.
Information about the Texas Crime Victim's Compensation Fund.
On request, referral to available social service agencies that provide other types of assistance.
Provide pertinent information concerning the impact of the offense on the victim to the probation department conductiong the pre-sentence investigation.
Information, on request, about parole procedures.
Notification of parole proceedings and of the inmate's release.
Participate in the parole process by submitting written information to the Board of Pardons and Paroles for inclusion in the defendant's file for consideration by the Board prior to parole.
Be present at all public court proceedings, with the presiding judge's consent.
A safe waiting area at public court proceedings.
Prompt return of property that is no longer needed as evidence.
Have the prosecutor notify, upon request, an employer that the need for the victim's testimony may involve the victim's absence from work.
Complete a Victim Impact Statement, detailing the emotional, physical and financial impact of the crime on the victim and to have the statement considered by the judge at sentencing and by the parole board prior to taking any parole action.
Appear in person before a member of the Board of Pardons and Paroles.
WHAT ABOUT STOLEN PROPERTY?
These losses should be reported in the "Victim Impact Statement," which is sent to victims by the Victim Assistance Program. When this is returned, it is included in the prosecutor's file so that restitution can be assessed by the court at the time of sentencing.
Remember, the District Attorney's Office, along with the Victim Assistance Program, is here to help you understand the criminal justice process. We will also inform you about other services available to victims of crime. Take advantage of these services. Call the Victim Assistance Program . . . We care.
Helpful Numbers

Victim Assistance Program	546-2091
Attorney General Office, Crime Victims' Compensation	1-800-9933
Sheriff, Victims' Services	543-3867
Probation, Victims' Assistance	546-8120
EPPD Victim Services	564-7045
El Paso Police (City)	911
El Paso Police Department
Headquarters	564-7365
Central (DART)	577-5011
Mission Valley (DART)	872-3611
Northeast (DART)	759-2046
Sheriff (County)	546-2280
Shelter for Battered Women	593-7300
Rape Crisis (STARS)	533-7705
M.A.D.D.	779-1987
Women's Resource Center	544-0782
Child Guidance Center	562-1999
Child Crisis Center	562-7955
Child Advocacy	545-5400
Opportunity Center	577-0069
Runaway Center	562-4765
Salvation Army	544-9811
Protective Order Division (County Attorney's Office)	546-2153
El Paso Legal Aid	544-3022
Texas VINE	1-877-894-8463
Probation VINE	1-877-596-8463
Family Advocacy, Ft. Bliss	568-4878
Family Services of El Paso	533-2491
Jewish Family Services	581-3256
General Assistance (food, utilities, clothing)	532-8850
Project Bravo	562-4100
Catholic Charities	532-9532
Food Bank	544-5592