Barton: National Crime Victims’ Rights Week: A Time to Stand in Kinship
By District Attorney Matthew Barton
As National Crime Victims’ Rights Week draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on this year’s theme: KINSHIP — a powerful reminder that behind every crime statistic is a human story. Kinship isn’t just a word; it’s a call to action. It means being with survivors — not just in the immediate aftermath of a crime, but through the long, difficult journey of healing. It means recognizing our shared humanity and building connections that restore dignity, empower resilience, and deliver justice.
Even in DeSoto County, we are not immune. According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, reported violent and property crimes in our county rose from 2,842 in 2018 to 3,875 in 2023 — an increase of more than 36%.That’s more than just a number. That is more lives upended, more families disrupted, and more people in need of support. It is clear: there is more work to be done.
As District Attorney, each Grand Jury, I am reminded — time and time again — of the pain victims are subjected to at the hands of criminals. There isn’t a month that passes without a case that highlights the deep emotional, physical, or financial wounds left behind from those who harm others. These sessions are sobering reminders of the work that still lies ahead — and of the people counting on us to get it right.
Criminals are getting smarter, more resourceful, and more brazen. That means our response has to be just as bold. Our office continues to grow — adding the right people, using better tools, and expanding services that not only help prosecute offenders but stand with victims every step of the way.
Too often, victims feel forgotten or unheard. But not in DeSoto County. Here, we make it our mission to ensure no one feels alone in the aftermath of a crime. From the courtroom to the counseling room, we walk beside those impacted — offering compassion, strength, and a path forward. Crimes leave a mark, but so does standing in solidarity.
KINSHIP is where victim advocacy begins. It means seeing survivors not as statistics or footnotes in a case file, but as people — people we are committed to helping rebuild and reclaim their lives.
To all victims: We hear you. We see you. We stand with you.
This opinion-editorial column was written and offered by 23rd Judicial District Attorney Matthew Barton. Any opinions expressed are those of the author and not necessarily those of this publication.
