Goshen, N.Y. – District Attorney David Hoovler hosted Orange County’s Crime Victims’ Vigil on Tuesday, April 10th at the Orange County Government Center.
Orange County Sheriff Carl E. DuBois, County Clerk Annie Rabbitt, Director of Probation Derek Miller, several County Legislators and State Assemblyman Karl Brabenec also attended the event.
“The vigil provided an opportunity to join with my colleagues from across government to remember the victims of crime and their families,” Hoovler said. “Too often the criminal and the process are what gets the attention of the media. Those who are the victims can be relegated to an afterthought. We must all pledge to work to seek justice, not only for society, but those whose lives were impacted by the crime.”
The vigil coincided with National Crime Victims’ Week, which runs from April 8-14th. This year’s theme of “Expand the Circle: Reach All Victims” emphasizes the importance of reaching out to include all victims of crime. Speakers remarked on the significance of the crime victims memorial tree, which was planted adjacent to the Government Center earlier this month. The tree represents the strong foundation of support that exists for victims and their families in Orange County.
Guests also lit candles outside of the Government Center in memory of crime victims and their families.
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 Safe Homes of Orange County.
For more information about the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program, contact 291-4015.
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