What is the relationship between the Prosecutor and the victims of crime? |
In Ohio, when prosecuting criminal charges, the county prosecutor must represent the interests of the citizens as a whole, not just those of the victim alone. For this reason, the victim of a crime is not legally considered to be an official party to a criminal or juvenile case. That fact, combined with the numerous constitutional and other legal rights provided to criminal defendants, occasionally results in victims of crime feeling as if they are powerless participants in the criminal justice system. In response to this, it is part of the mission of the Richland County Prosecutor's Office to ensure that the rights of victims are also acknowledged and protected to the fullest extent possible under the law. |
Under Ohio law, a victim of crime has the right to: |
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Our Victim's unit provides the following assistance: |
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Call 911 for imminent danger
Domestic Violence 24-hour Crisis Line:
Jamie Akers - Victim Advocate
Martin E. Jones - Director
Jenelle Foss - Victim Advocate