The program’s administrative staff is responsible for conducting investigations on all submitted claims.

The Crime Victims Reparations Board is a five-member body responsible for determining which claims are to be paid and how much may be awarded. Board members are appointed by the Governor. The Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board also awards the Crime Victim Advocate of the Year Award annually during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

Board Members:

Bilenda Harris-Ritter, Attorney-at-Law, Chair

Paula Steinsiek, Victim Advocate

Lt. Eugene Tyree, North Little Rock Police Department (Retired), Victim Advocate

Jordan Snowden, Attorney-at-Law

Laura Abbott, Victim Advocate

Administration:

Lisette Yang, Administrator

Varnell Messer, Senior Eligibility Specialist

Melinda Perkins, Senior Eligibility Specialist

Tonya Hooks, Senior Eligibility Specialist

Michaela Thomas, Eligibility Specialist

Vacant, Eligibility Specialist

Ericka Henson, Eligibility Specialist

Karen Heer, Fiscal Support Analyst

Danielle Shepherd, Administrative Specialist III