News Release 2003-4
April 4, 2003
"Victims’ Rights: Fulfill the Promise"
America Commemorates the 23rd Anniversary of
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
During the week of April 6 through April 12, 2003, crime victims, service providers, criminal and juvenile justice and allied professionals, and community volunteers all join together across America to commemorate the 23rd anniversary of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This year’s theme, "Victims’ Rights: Fulfill the Promise," emphasizes America’s promise to victims to treat them with dignity and compassion; to help identify and meet their most important needs; and to provide them with information about their statutory and constitutional rights, as well as advocacy to help them implement their rights.
Since 1972, the victims’ rights discipline has strived to place crime victims’ concerns and issues on the forefront of America’s public policy agenda. Over 32,000 laws have been passed at the federal, state and local levels that promote victims’ rights and services, including constitutional amendments in 33 states including Washington. And today, there are 10,000 community and justice system-based organizations that provide help and hope to victims of crime. One of those organizations is the Victim Services Unit of the San Juan County Prosecutor.
According to Randall K. Gaylord, America’s "promise" to victims cannot be kept without recognition that when crime affects one person, it affects us all.
"The domino effect of criminal victimization is tremendous," Gaylord said. "The physical, emotional, and financial devastation a victim suffers has repercussions that touch us all – in our homes, our neighborhoods, our schools, in our workplaces and beyond."
"Our promise to victims – of support and services to help them in the aftermath of crime – requires the commitment and compassion of anyone to whom a victim might turn for help," Gaylord concluded.
Members of our community are encouraged to join together during 2003 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and honor not only victims of crime, but also those who bring honor to victims on a daily basis. For additional information about 2003 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, please contact Randall K. Gaylord, Prosecutor at 360-378-4101 or visit our website at http://www.co.san-juan.wa.us/prosecutor/default.asp.
Randall K. Gaylord
San Juan County Prosecuting Attorney
350 Court Street, 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 760
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360)378-4101