Goshen, N.Y. – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has announced that the 2021 Orange County Crime Victims’ Vigil will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 20th at Thomas Bull Memorial Park in Hamptonburgh.
“We are proud to partner with law enforcement officials, advocates and community members at this important event, which allows us all to show our support and compassion for crime victims and their families,” Neuhaus said. “It gives us an opportunity to honor those in our community who have been victims of crimes. I thank the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program for putting this important event together.”
Attendance at the event will be limited. The vigil coincides with National Crime Victims’ Week, which runs from April 18th-24th. This year’s theme is “Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities,” and emphasizes the importance of leveraging community support to help victims of crime.
“This annual event is always a very moving and healing moment for crime victims and their families,” Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler said. “We want them to know that they are not alone and that their community cares about them. My office will remain vigilant when it comes to prosecuting violent crimes in Orange County.”
Added Orange County Sheriff Carl E. DuBois: “When reading or listening to the news, people don’t often think of the family and friends of someone victimized by a crime. Orange County remembers and honors those victims and the survivors, as well as their families and friends. The Sheriff’s Office is committed to remembering and showing respect for all those affected by crime.”
The Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program is dedicated to addressing the social, emotional, and financial needs of crime victims and their immediate families, helping them with a variety of services including filing compensation claims with the New York State Office of Victims Services. The Orange County Crime Victim Coalition is comprised of the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program, Fox Hill and Bellvale Communities, Mental Health Association of Orange County-Rape Crisis, Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Orange County Police Chief’s Association, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Orange County STOP-DWI, the State Police and Fearless! Hudson Valley, Inc.
Those wishing to participate in the Crime Victims’ Vigil are advised that some content may not be appropriate for younger children. Crisis counselors will be available throughout the ceremony. Photographs of loved ones may be brought for display and a roll call of crime victims will be held during the ceremony. Anyone that wants to add a name to the tribute may consult with a crime victim counselor before the ceremony by calling 291-4750.
To RSVP to the event, please contact Sedonia Andrea Young at 845-291-4780 or via email syoung@orangecountygov.com
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