Washington, DC – Linda Singer, Attorney General for the District of Columbia announced today that the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) will mark the observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 22-28, 2007.
A special week of events is held every April to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the OAG Victim Witness Assistance Unit (VWAU) will staff an information table on April 23rd through April 27th from 10 am to 3 pm in the Lobby of One Judiciary Square (441 4th Street, NW). Information will be provided to the public to increase awareness of the services provided by OAG’s VWAU, as well as the work done by other local and national agencies.
“National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is important to raise awareness to the devastating effects that crime has on the lives of so many.” said Attorney General Singer. “This year we are particularly cognizant of this in light of the tragic events at Virginia Tech. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of those affected by that terrible tragedy.
The OAG’s VWAU, which was created in 2004, specializes in assisting and supporting victims who have been subjected to crimes by juvenile offenders. Victim Witness Specialists are committed to assisting victims by providing referrals for counseling, support, and assistance throughout the entire judicial process. The services provided by Victim Witness Specialists include:
- Acute crisis intervention
- Referrals to treatment and other applicable services
- Assistance in applying for the Crime Victims Compensation Program
- Information about the victim’s role in the court process
- Timely notification of court dates
- Accompany victims as they attend court proceedings
- Assistance with Victim Impact Statements
- Participate in the Public Awareness and Crime Prevention Programs
OAG’s Victim Witness Assistance Unit is located at 441 4th Street, NW, Suite 450 North, Washington, DC
More information on National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is listed below: