DETROIT, MI – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, in collaboration with the Detroit Crime Victims’ Action Team, will observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 6-12, 2025. This effort honors victims of crime and those who work tirelessly to support them.
Acting United States Attorney Julie Beck expressed the office's commitment to victims by saying, “My office stands ready to support victims and ensure they know their rights. Our staff of professionals are dedicated to supporting federal crime victims by providing them with essential services they need to help reshape their futures.”
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy underscored the importance of crime victims' participation, stating, “We have deep respect and gratitude for crime victims who courageously come forward to report their crimes to the police and come to testify in court. We ask a lot from them since they must re-live the violence and trauma they have experienced. Their families and friends are often victims of secondhand trauma. We thank you for your commitment to the criminal justice system. We could not perform our work without you."
This year's theme for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is KINSHIP, emphasizing the shared humanity in supporting survivors and victims, which fosters connections to services, rights, and healing.
The observance will begin with a Survivor Walk on Belle Isle on Sunday, April 6, 2025. A Crime Victim Awareness Event will follow on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Henry Ford College. The main event, a community and resource fair, will be held on Friday, April 11, at the Criminal Justice Center in Detroit.
Nicole Marcell, a domestic violence survivor, will share her story as a guest speaker, using her experience to help others.
Post-event, Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office will host a Wellness Event with vendors, food trucks, and resources. Mechelle Donahoo, Director of Victim Services, can be contacted for further information about the week’s activities.
This year is the 41st anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), which established the Crime Victims Fund and other resources for victims and survivors.
For additional resources or to support victims of crime, visit OVC’s website.
