The Victim Services Division of the Cass County Prosecutor’s Office provides a variety of services to victims of crime.  Chapter 595 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and Article I, Section 32 of the Missouri Constitution guarantees the rights of victims of crimes.  As a crime victim you have the right to be present at all criminal justice proceedings which defendant can also attend.  You also have a right to be informed of and to be heard at guilty pleas, sentencing, hearings, probation revocations, parole hearings.  Victims also have the right to be informed of trials and preliminary hearings, to receive restitution and information and explanations about the criminal justice process.

The Cass County Prosecutor’s Office has implemented a program to assist victims of crimes that have been committed in our county.  The goal of the Victim Services Division is to meet the needs of victims who unexpectedly become involved with the criminal justice system.  The staff of the division will do their best to answer any questions you have and keep you informed regarding various aspects of the case.

As a victim, you will receive in the mail from this office a letter and a VICTIM IMPACT STATEMENT.  We understand that not all victims are comfortable with completing the forms and victims are not required to do so.  It will be necessary, however, for you as a victim to submit proof of any financial loss and/or expenses within 30 days of the date of your letter if you want to request reimbursement for your losses as part of the defendant’s sentencing. 

As a victim of crime, you have a critical role in our efforts to prosecute and you may be subpoenaed to testify.  The prosecution of a criminal case can be a frustrating and lengthy process.  The staff of the Victim Services Division is very dedicated to the needs of crime victims and you, as a victim, should not hesitate to contact a member of the staff.