NEW: Raimondo Picks New Administrator for Victims Fund

NEW: Raimondo Picks New Administrator for Victims Fund

General Treasurer Gina M. Raimondo has appointed Melba Depena as the administrator for the Rhode Island Crime Victims Compensation Fund.

"Melba's rich experience in working with diverse populations and fostering a collaborative environment of respect will be a valuable asset to [the fund]," Raimondo said. "Her leadership will ensure that crime victims and their families are able to access and fully utilize the resources available to them through this program.

Raimondo’s announcement was made in order to coincide with and acknowledge National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Rhode Island’s Crime Victims Compensation Fund assists victims of violent crime with their crime-related financial burdens, such as hospital, counseling, and funeral costs. Last year, it helped 358 Rhode Island crime victims.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Depena is currently the executive director of the Providence Human Relations Commission, a position she has held since 2006. She earned a B.A. degree in political science a Master’s degree in human development and family studies from the University of Rhode Island.

More information about the Crime Victims Compensation Fund can be found at www.treasury.ri.gov.

If you valued this article, please LIKE GoLocalProv.com on Facebook by clicking HERE.

Photo credit: Alan Cleaver