Governor Proclaims Crime Victims' Rights Week 2023

WHEREAS, in 2021, over 42,400 violent crimes were committed in North Carolina according to the Annual Summary Report of Uniform Crime Reporting Data; and

WHEREAS, National Crime Victims' Week recognizes the Victims of Crime Act of 1984 (VOCA) as a pillar of support for victims' services, and reaffirms the commitment of our state and nation to addressing the needs of victims of crime; and

WHEREAS, victims and survivors of crime suffer emotional, physical, psychological, and financial harm as a result of the criminal acts committed against them; and

WHEREAS, the North Carolina justice system and its civic and community partners have built a strong network of services and programs to help victims of crime as they rebuild their lives and allow their physical and emotional scars to heal; and

WHEREAS, North Carolina recognizes and affirms a national commitment to provide financial support to crime victims by the establishment of the Crime Victims Fund as a major funding source for compensation to crime victims throughout the United States; and

WHEREAS, the Fund, comprised of fines and penalties paid by convicted offenders, has financed victims' assistance and compensation programs in North Carolina and other states nationwide, including those in nonprofit, law enforcement, and local and state government sectors; and

WHEREAS, the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, Victim Support Services offers confidential and anonymous victim notification services; and

WHEREAS, the Governor's Crime Commission and the Crime Victims Compensation Commission serve as a conduit through which vital financial support is provided for victims' assistance and compensation programs in North Carolina; and

WHEREAS, the North Carolina Victim Assistance Network, joined by criminal justice officials, advocacy groups, and concerned individuals, encourages all residents to help victims of crime with purpose and compassion, providing them with the physical, financial, and emotional support they need to rebuild their lives;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim April 23 – 29, 2023, as “CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.