__________________________________________Ask the DA
 

I’m concerned about the future release from prison of a man who assaulted me. What can be done to protect me?

Your concern is understandable and shared by many victims of crime. In some circumstances, an inmate may be released under supervision by parole or probation officials. In others, an inmate may have completed his or her sentence and will be released into the community without supervision. 

Where an offender and victim are related or known to each other, such as in a domestic violence or child abuse case, it is highly likely there will be a judicial Order of Protection in place when the offender is released. This may not be so where the parties are not known to each other. In such instances, courts will determine, on a case by case basis, whether a risk is posed to the safety of the victim and issue a final Order accordingly.

An Order of Protection is an important document. It serves to inform the offender that he or she must abide by the provisions of the Order or risk arrest and prosecution. In the majority of cases this means the offender must stay away from and have no contact with the named victim. Should the offender attempt to make contact, he or she will be found to be in violation of the Order and thereby subject to arrest. Violation of an Order of Protection is a serious offense. The offender may incur a substantial penalty including serving time in jail.