Marshall v. Commonwealth

This appeal involves a claim filed by the plaintiff, Irene Marshall, the mother of Kelly Marshall, under the Compensation for Victims of Violent Crimes Act, G. L. c. 258A (1990 ed.), seeking recovery from the Commonwealth of the cost of Kelly’s funeral. The principal issue is whether the trial judge was warranted in concluding that Kelly Marshall was the victim of a crime of force or violence, which is a prerequisite to recovery under the Act. Chapter 258A, § 3, provides in relevant part: “Except as hereinafter provided, the following persons shall be eligible for compensation for the…