Each year, in Lackawanna County, hundreds of victims suffer physical, psychological, and financial damage due to criminal acts. As a result, victims are thrown into the Criminal Justice System, through no fault of their own, and are asked to appear in court and to testify against the defendant who harmed them. Often times, these are very frightening experiences for victims and they require special services to help them cope.

The Victim/Witness Unit consists of three, full time victim advocates who are available to assist victims throughout their experiences with the Criminal Justice System. Victim/Witness services include:
• Orientation to the Criminal Justice System
• Accompaniment to all court proceedings
• Accompaniment to police facilities
• Information and referral to appropriate social    service agencies and organizations
• Information and assistance with Crime Victim's    Compensation
• Information regarding case status
• Employer/creditor/school intervention
• Assistance with restitution
• Notification of court hearings

These services are free of charge and are available to all men, women, and children who are victims of crime in Lackawanna County.
For more information and help contact:
Margaret Prisco

Email: priscom@lackawannacounty.org
Phone: 570-963-6717

This service allows crime victims to obtain timely and reliable information about criminal cases and the custody status of offenders 24 hours a day. Victims and other concerned citizens can also register to be notified by phone, email or TTY device when an offender's custody status changes. Users can also register through their participating state or county toll-free number.