Chicago — Secretary of State Jesse White said today the families of the 21 victims killed at a Chicago nightclub early Monday as well as those injured may be eligible for funding to cover medical bills, funeral expenses, counseling, lost wages and other expenses through the Illinois Crime Victim Compensation Fund.
Victims may file crime victim compensation applications with the Illinois Court of Claims to pay for some expenses not covered by their insurance. The Court of Claims determines if the victims are eligible for compensation under the reckless conduct provision of the Illinois Crime Victim Compensation Act.
"Since 1973, the state has helped crime victims and their families pay for medical, burial and other expenses covered under the crime victim compensation act," said White. "Unfortunately, victims often don't realize that assistance is available."
Under the Illinois Crime Victim's Compensation Act, victims of violent crimes who have inadequate insurance or no source of funds to cover their expenses are eligible for compensation up to $27,000. Expenses covered under the act include medical expenses, rehabilitation, counseling, lost wages of up to $1,000 per month, burial expenses up to $5,000, crime scene cleanup and temporary lodging. The Court of Claims distributes $25 million per year to Illinois victims of violent crimes.
Crimes that are covered by the Illinois Crime Victim's Compensation Act include domestic violence, sexual assault and abuse, murder, involuntary manslaughter/reckless homicide, kidnapping, sexual relations within families, exploitation of a child, assault/battery, reckless conduct, arson, driving under the influence, and stalking.
White said crime victim compensation applications are available online at cyberdriveillinois.com or at local police stations and public libraries. Victims may also call or write the Illinois Court of Claims for assistance. The Court of Claims is located at 100 W. Randolph, Suite 10-400 and the phone number is (312) 814-5010.
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