Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan | Department of Justice
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan announced on April 20 that it will observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 19 to 24, together with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office and the Detroit Crime Victims’ Action Team. The week is dedicated to recognizing crime victims and honoring those who serve and assist them.
United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr. said, “During National Crime Victims’ Right Week, we reaffirm the principle that victims will be heard, respected, and protected. We will prosecute the criminals and defend the vulnerable.”
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy also addressed participants by saying, “Thank you - all of you - for your collective work restoring dignity, respect, and humanity to people within our state who have been abused, murdered, and victimized. Thank you for keeping the focus on them. Survivors matter. And we must be accountable to them. We cannot just give lip service to victims and public safety. We must mean it. We must be out and bold about it. We must live it.”
This year marks the 42nd anniversary of the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), which established several support mechanisms including the Crime Victims Fund (CVF), a Federal Victim Notification System, grants for victim service organizations, assistance positions within the Department of Justice, financial support for children’s justice programs, as well as compensation for victims of terrorism.
The observance includes events such as a Survivor Walk on Sunday at Belle Isle near Scott Fountain at 10:00 am and a community resource fair at noon on Friday at Wayne County Criminal Justice Center in Detroit. Shauntaye Phillips is scheduled as guest speaker to share her personal story following her husband’s fatal animal attack.
Following these events is a Wellness Event hosted by Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office with vendors and resources available to attendees. More information can be found through Mechelle Donahoo or via official county websites.
The Detroit Crime Victims’ Action Team comprises representatives from local law enforcement agencies including federal partners such as ATF, DEA, FBI alongside state officials.
