HARRISBURG, PA — In a significant move to enhance support for crime victims across Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) has announced two groundbreaking initiatives aimed at refining the Victim Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP). These initiatives, which involve a strategic partnership with the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and the introduction of a digital claims filing system, promise to expedite financial assistance to those affected by crime.
VCAP serves as a vital resource for victims, reimbursing costs related to victimization such as medical expenses, relocation, counseling, and funeral costs. Annually, the program processes around 12,000 claims, addressing the needs of individuals and families across all 67 counties in Pennsylvania. Over the last five years, it has facilitated more than 76,000 claims, disbursing $65 million to cover eligible expenses.
PCCD Executive Director Mike Pennington highlighted the importance of these improvements, stating, “Every step we take to simplify and speed up our processes is a step toward better supporting victims who have already endured so much. These changes are about more than just efficiency—they’re about making a real difference in the lives of Pennsylvanians who need it most.”
One of the most impactful changes is the enhanced collaboration with the PSP to improve the turnaround time for obtaining police reports, a critical component in claims processing. A new database, launched in May 2024, enables PCCD staff to directly request police reports, which PSP can then promptly upload, significantly reducing waiting times. This advancement ensures that VCAP can access essential documentation within days rather than months, thereby accelerating the provision of support to victims.
Colonel Christopher Paris, Commissioner of PSP, emphasized the importance of this advancement, stating, “The PSP recognizes the multifaceted impact of criminal acts on victims, so in our pursuit of justice, we must ensure victims receive timely compensation to recover their health, security, and dignity.”
In addition to streamlining police report acquisition, PCCD has modernized the VCAP claims process by transitioning from a paper-based system to a fully electronic format. This transformation, initiated after the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, has culminated in the introduction of the Dependable Access for Victims’ Expenses (DAVE) online claim filing system. This centralized case management platform allows victims and allied professionals to upload necessary documents digitally, reducing processing times and administrative burdens. The final phase of this project, launched in August, includes an opt-in feature for real-time updates, enhancing transparency and communication throughout the claims process.
These innovations position Pennsylvania as a leader in victim support services, joining a select group of states offering electronic, paperless processes for victim compensation. By ensuring faster, more efficient claim processing, the PCCD’s initiatives not only enhance the immediate support available to victims but also signify a broader commitment to improving the state’s response to crime and victimization. With continued investment and innovation, Pennsylvania is poised to set a standard for victim support that others might follow.
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