About the Office of the Victim Advocate (OVA)

We advocate for crime victims in Connecticut

Since 1998, the Office of the Victim Advocate (OVA) has worked to make sure crime victims are treated fairly and their voices are heard in Connecticut’s criminal justice system.

OVA supports crime victims. We review complaints about the violation of crime victims' rights and advocate for crime victims in court if their rights have been violated. We also educate the public and partner with state agencies to improve services.

Our mission is to stand with victims, protect their constitutional rights as a crime victim, and improve how Connecticut responds to crime victims’ rights and concerns.
Read our full mission statement  

Learn more about OVA

OVA services

Learn how we support crime victims in Connecticut. View our list of services, including investigating and responding to crime victim complaints.

Boards and commissions

The State Victim Advocate serves on several boards and commissions. View these groups that guide statewide policy and improve crime victim services.

Publications and legislation

Find the reports and laws that shape crime victims’ rights in Connecticut. Review annual reports, legislative summaries, and more information.

Statutory authority

Learn more about the laws that created the Office of the Victim Advocate. Find out more about crime victim confidentiality and protections.

Meet our team

Get to know the State Victim Advocate

Meet Connecticut’s State Victim Advocate, Natasha M. Pierre, Esq. She is an experienced attorney and advocate with a strong background in victim services, public policy, and legislative advocacy. As State Victim Advocate, Natasha:

  • Acts as the ombudsman for victims of crime
  • Advocates for victims in court
  • Reviews state services for victims
  • More advocacy work for CT crime victims
Learn more about our staff  

OVA supports and services for crime victims and professionals

File a complaint 

If you feel that your crime victim rights were violated, you can submit a complaint 24/7.

Professional resources 

Get training and policy info for state agencies and professionals who work with crime victims.

Crime victim resources 

Find guidance, rights information, and services to help crime victims and their families.

View frequently asked questions 

Find answers to common questions about crime victim rights, the criminal justice process, who to contact, and more.

Volunteer at OVA

OVA’s Victim Advocacy in Action: Intern & Volunteer Program

Interested in learning more about CT victims' rights and the criminal justice system? Anyone 18 years of age or older is encouraged to apply. Areas that can be explored include court and meeting accompaniment, special events and legislative hearings.

Contact us

Get in touch with OVA

The Office of the Victim Advocate is here to support you. Contact our team to learn more about our services or ask a question. Our trained staff is here to help victims of crime and their loved ones across Connecticut.

Address:
505 Hudson Street, 5th Floor
Hartford, CT 06106

Phone: 860-550-6632
Toll-Free:1-888-771-3126
Fax: 860-560-7065
Email: ova.info@ct.gov

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