Crime Victims’ Rights Week

Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a nationally recognized annual commemoration in April set aside to celebrate and acknowledge the hard and dedicated work of victim advocates, as well as to promote victims’ rights and services.  Normally, during the designated week, we hold a daylong event, bringing in nationally recognized speakers, culminating with an afternoon awards ceremony to recognize the outstanding victim advocates in the State of Vermont.  Due to the unprecedented times we are facing, this in-person event has been cancelled, and we will be sending a newsletter and mailing awards to recipients instead.  Let us not forget, though, that it is in times like these – where criminals could seek to prey on the vulnerable – that we need our advocates and attention to victims’ needs more than ever.  We cannot lose sight of the rights of victims during this pandemic. 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office did not want the week to go by without praising all of the state, federal and local advocates that continue to provide much needed services throughout the State of Vermont.  Thank you for selflessly empowering, supporting, and rescuing victims.  Thank you for your heroic work. 

During this week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office also wanted to call attention to a valuable victim resource directory, which you can find on-line at www.justice.gov/usao/vt.  This guide is continually updated with resources for victims of crime.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office is here to support our advocates and stands ready to join you in fighting for victims of crime.  Now, more than ever, we must be vigilant to safeguard those who may suffer from crime – from domestic violence and gun violence, to child exploitation, fraud, and drug trafficking.  Together, we will protect them and vindicate their rights.