MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall this week recognized National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which occurs annually during the last week of April and highlights victims of crimes, as well as the professionals and volunteers who support them and their families.
“Throughout the week, this office and the greater law enforcement community will remember victims who lost their lives to crime, and highlight the advocates, law enforcement and prosecutors who help bring the perpetrators of those crimes to justice. The week will be capped off with the Annual Victims of Crime and Leniency (VOCAL) Vigil to be hosted on the lawn at the Attorney General’s Office,” said a release from Marshall’s office.
“All of us who come into contact with victims are enriched by the bravery and resiliency they display after surviving circumstances that most of us cannot even imagine,” said Marshall. “Every day my office and law enforcement play a critical role in providing justice for those harmed by some of the most heinous acts of violence. This week shines light on the experience of crime victims and their mission to seek justice in their own cases and to advocate for policies that will prevent more Alabamians from ever becoming victims. Elected officials must do better to ensure that the voices of crime victims are never drowned out.”
Marshall recalled his own experiences as a prosecutor for 16 years, saying he has “seen first-hand the physical and emotional toll violent crime takes on victims and their families. I know that the scars rarely heal fully. Yet, we can make a positive difference by standing and supporting those who have been harmed.”
Every year, local events and candlelight vigils are held across the state of Alabama and are attended by the families and friends of crime victims, as well as fellow residents wishing to show their support for victims.
VOCAL’s annual vigil is scheduled for Friday, April 28 at 7 p.m. on the lawn of the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, 501 Washington Ave., Montgomery. The keynote speaker will be C.J. Robinson, district attorney of the 19th Judicial Circuit representing Autauga, Chilton and Elmore counties.
The Attorney General’s Office of Victim Assistance plays a critical role in serving victims of crime providing support in trial and legal process with updates and education on how the legal process. For Alabamians looking for more information please contact that AGOVA’s Crime Victims’ Hotline at 1-800-626-7676.
