AG Biden touts DE victims assistance program

Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden (D) believes the state’s recently restructured Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) is reaching more crime victims.

Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden (D) believes the state’s recently restructured Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP) is reaching more crime victims.

The Delaware General Assembly moved VCAP under the Department of Justice umbrella last July.  Since that move,  Biden says the number of applications processed has jumped 60%, with more than 1,100 expected to be handled by the end this fiscal year.  Biden adds VCAP has already awarded over $2.3 million dollars to victims this fiscal year.

“Anytime you see a 60% increase in the amount of funds that we’re able to get in the hands of victims, the proof is in the pudding,” said Biden.  “It’s been a great resource for us.  It’s allowed us to be more nimble in getting resources directly to victims and it’s allowed us to be more nimble in getting dollars to victims to help them get the treatment and counseling that they need and deserve.”

Biden points to the ongoing child sex abuse case involving Lewes pediatrician Dr. Earl Bradley as one example of VCAP’s work.

“VCAP has been directly involved in the case in Lewes and provided both a resource by way of referrals and monies to families and victims,” Biden said.  “We’ve provided, through VCAP, actual dollars to go toward counseling and other services in that case.”

Biden pointed out the VCAP is funded without state dollars, through surcharges on court fines and penalties, along with federal grants.  VCAP officials say they are usually able to process applications within 30 days, though can handle some quicker based on circumstances.

Biden is highlighting VCAP’s efforts as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights week.

“The reality is this is a service many of our citizens are unaware of,”  Biden said.  “It’s a well-funded program, and we need to be more streamlined and continue to be more nimble in getting the money to the victim.”