If you or a family member has suffered personal injury as a result of l a violent crime l trying to stop a person committing a crime l trying to help a law enforcement officer l trying to help a victim of a crime or l witnessing a violent crime you may file a claim for compensation from the South Dakota Crime Victims' Compensation Program. However, not all crimes or expenses are covered. Compensation is approved by the Department of Social Services and funded through a court surcharge on criminal offenders.
Compensation is available only to the extent that funds are generated from the surcharge.
No compensation can be awarded when money is not available, and compensation is only available for persons who meet the eligibility requirements. An innocent victim of a violent crime who has suffered harm. You must file a Crime Victims' Compensation Application form. Types of Assistance Compensation may be available for expenses incurred as a direct result of the criminal acts of another person if not covered by another source. There is no filing fee.