A victim's criminal history or felony status shall not prevent compensation to that victim or the victim's family. No compensation may be granted to an applicant under this Act while the applicant is held in a correctional institution. An applicant who is held in a correctional institution may apply for assistance under this Act at any time, but no award of compensation may be considered until the applicant meets the requirements of this Section.
740 ILCS 45/2.5