The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of Illinois announced on Oct. 29 that it is recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which will take place from April 19 to April 25, 2026. This year’s theme is “Listen. Act. Advocate,” focusing on the ongoing responsibility to provide service to victims in the community.
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week highlights efforts to support crime victims and their advocates across the United States. The U.S. Attorney’s Office said it is committed both to prosecuting crimes and addressing victims’ needs through advocacy and support services.
As part of its commitment, the office introduced Maisy, described as the nation’s first U.S. Attorney’s Office Facility Dog, who works directly with victims coping with trauma by providing comfort as they move through the criminal justice system.
“Victims of crime deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. It is essential that we work together to empower survivors,” the statement said. “We are grateful for the many law enforcement agencies, social service organizations and community partners who work with us each year to support victims in the Central District of Illinois.”
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of Illinois supports community safety and justice through partnerships and victim assistance, according to the official website. The office functions within the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website, prosecutes federal crimes, safeguards U.S interests according to its official website, serves 46 counties across central Illinois according to its official website, collaborates with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies according to its official website, handles federal prosecutions and civil litigation in its district while promoting community safety according to its official website.
More information about victim services or Maisy can be found at https://www.justice.gov/usao-cdil.
