Sweeney v. Commonwealth

This appeal presents a constitutional challenge on equal protection grounds to the statutory eligibilityrequirements set forth in G. L. c. 258A, Sec. 1 for compensation of dependents of victims of violent crimes.

The facts in this case are uncontroverted. Petitioner Joseph Sweeney is the eleven year old son of the late Robert B. Sweeney who was fatally stabbed on June 25,1986. At the time of his father’s death, the petitioner’s parents were divorced and he was living with his mother. On November 7, 1986, the petitioner, through his mother and next friend, filed a G.L. c. 258A claim for…