National Crime Victims Rights Week April 23-29

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi is commemorating National Crime Victims Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 23-29. In commemoration of this year’s NCVRW, the office will hold a tree-planting ceremony to honor crime victims on Thursday, April 27, and will recognize victim advocates within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

According to a report from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, in 2021, there were more than 4.6 million violent victimizations and 11.7 million property crimes.

“It is imperative that we support crime victims to ensure that they are adequately informed, their rights are protected, and that they have an opportunity to be heard,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Crime victims come from all walks of life, but regardless of their background or circumstances, they deserve support throughout the criminal justice process and beyond. This week, we pause to honor crime victims from our District and across our Nation and affirm our commitment to engaging with them and advocating for them at each step of the criminal justice proceedings.”

The Federal Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) leads communities throughout the country in their annual observances of National Crime Victims Rights Week by raising awareness of victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s theme is “Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change.” Partner organizations are committed to engaging with victims of crime, learning from their lived experiences, amplifying their voices, and fostering an environment where they are heard, believed, and supported.

For additional information about this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and how to assist crime victims, please contact Jorge Torres, Victim Assistance Specialist, or Paul Roberts, Victim Rights Coordinator at (662) 234-3351. For more information about how to support all victims of crime, visit OVC’s website at www.ovc.ojp.gov.