Norwalk mother appeals to court for funeral aid

[The Straight Story]

Norwalk mother appeals to court for funeral aid


NORWALK (CT) - The mother of a murdered Norwalk teenager is taking the state to court over its refusal to pay for her son's funeral expenses.

Mark Sherman and Michael Colombo, attorneys for the mother, Jamie Hunt-Howard, filed an appeal Tuesday in state Superior Court seeking to overturn a decision by the Office of Victim Services not to reimburse the $3,691 bill for her son's funeral.

"I believe the decision was arbitrary and capricious, and I'm appalled," Colombo said Tuesday.

Hunt-Howard's 17-year-old son, Tykwan Hunt, was stabbed to death Jan. 11. His alleged killer, Amos Brown of Norwalk, is awaiting trial.

In August, the Office of Victim Services denied Hunt-Howard's request for the funeral money. The office provides limited compensation to crime victims, such as medical and counseling costs, lost wages, loss of support and funeral costs. The program is funded through court fees and fines paid by defendants and convicted people, and with federal money.

The office can deny compensation requests if it determines a victim's behavior contributed to their injury or death.

http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/norwalkadvocate/ci_11300656