MCPO Recognizes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2021
Published on April 21, 2021
In recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2021, members of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office joined leaders of the law enforcement and victim advocate community for a virtual conference to discuss how to best help the victims of crime, and the impact the COVID-19 public health emergency has had on services and vulnerable citizens.
Speakers included Diane Williams, President and CEO of JBWS Safety, Support & Solutions for Abuse; Maria Vinci Savettiere, Esq., Executive Director of Deirdre’s House, The Center for Morris County’s Child Victims; Carolyn Dean, Director of Community Outreach and Support at NewBridge Services, and Morris County Commissioner Director Stephen H. Shaw.
The conference can be viewed by visiting the Morris County NJ Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UixQN8wQWU
Marking its 40th anniversary this year, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is intended to raise awareness of victims' rights and services, highlighting programs, celebrating progress achieved, and honoring victims, the professionals, and agencies who serve them. This year, the theme is “Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.” The theme recommits to honoring those values and embraces the opportunity to raise awareness of victims’ rights with fairness, dignity and respect.
As a visual reminder of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office has a lit tree outside of the Administration & Records Building from April 18 through April 24, 2021 in honor of all of the victims of crime in Morris County. Serving as a small beacon of hope, a wreath adorned with a “2021 in Recognition and Remembrance” ribbon has been placed next to the tree.
Commissioner Director Shaw presented a copy of the Proclamation recognizing Crime Victims’ Rights Week approved by the Commissioners.
Acting Prosecutor Carroll said, “The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is committed to helping get victims through these very trying times, as they are involuntarily pulled into the criminal justice system. One of the steps we are taking at the county level is participating in a working group, as directed by the Attorney General, intended to review our mental health programs. The purpose is to work with all of our agencies to develop a ‘Mental Health Toolbox’ – the identification of resources and connections to unite the people who are in need with services that are available. Conditions created by the pandemic health emergency have amplified cases of domestic violence, child abuse and a rise in suicide ideation and suicides by youth. Below are services available to Morris County residents and members of the public, even during this time of social distancing.”
Suicide Prevention Services:
Inquiries concerning this press release should be directed to Public Information Officer Meghan Knab at [email protected] or by phone at 973-829-8159.