Washington County Commemorates Crime Victims’ Rights Week

STILLWATER, MN — Washington County Attorney Pete Orput wants to remind citizens that every April the Office of Victims of Crime (OVC) helps lead communities throughout the country in their annual observances of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf.

This year’s theme—Strength. Resilience. Justice.—emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary responses and building the capacity of individuals, service providers, and communities to respond to crime and support the ongoing healing of victims and survivors.

The theme also supports OVC’s Vision 21 Initiative to encourage research, address emerging issues, and build the capacity of victim service organizations by increasing the use of technology and training.

In 2016 the Washington County Attorney’s Office worked with over 1400 victims of crimes committed in the county, according to a news release.

County Attorney Pete Orput stated, “I am proud to be able to advocate for crime victims every day. My
office’s commitment to reaching victims of crime is stronger than ever. Our message to them is that they are
not alone.”

Photo: Washington County Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Coordinators
Deb Smith, Linda Wikoff, Christine VonDeLinde and Kathy Woxland

Image via Washington County Attorney's Office