- Published: 08 May 2013
Senator Patricia Van Pelt’s plan to help victims and witnesses of gang crime passed a key Senate committee earlier today.
The legislation, House Bill 1139, establishes the Gang Crime Witness Protection Program Fund, which will assist victims and witnesses who are actively aiding in the prosecution of gang members. The funds may be used to help pay temporary living costs, moving expenses, rent and other expenses of relocation.
“We need to keep our neighborhoods safe and stop gang violence,” said Van Pelt. “Part of the solution to this problem is making sure witnesses can testify without fear of retribution.”