The Natchitoches Parish District attorneys Office and Natchitoches District Probation and Parole, will raise awareness about crime victims’ issues and rights and introduce the community to the resources and services available.
According to the most recent Bureau of Justice Statistics Survey, victims experience more than five million violent crimes and nearly 15 million property victimizations a year. Natchitoches Parish and surrounding areas will commemorate the advancement of victims’ rights and highlight issues surrounding victimization by holding “Expand the Circle-Reach Victims” program April 25 at 10 a.m. in the small courtroom at the Natchitoches Parish Court House.
The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) of the U.S. Dept. of Justice, leads communities throughout the country in their annual observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week by promoting victims’ rights and honoring crime victims and advocates on their behalf. This year’s theme, “Expand the Circle-Reach Victims,” highlights how the investment of communities in crime victims exands sthe opportunity for victims to disclose their victimization, connect with services and receive the support they need. The themes acknowledges the barriers facing victims of crime, especially those with disabilities, LGBTQ victims, older adults, speakers with limited English proficiency, American Indians and Alaska Natives and other from historically marginalized communities.
OVC and the Natchitoches Parish District attorneys Office and Natchitoches District Probation and Parole, encourage widespread participation in the week’s events and other victim-related observances throughout the year. Contact Alice Hardison at the Natchitoches Parish District Attorney’s Office at 357-2214 or Melissa Murray at the District Probation and Parole office at 357-3139 for more information.
