Goshen, N.Y. – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus, District Attorney David Hoovler and Sheriff Carl E. DuBois announced on Wednesday that the 2019 Orange County Crime Victims’ Vigil will be held on Tuesday, April 9th at 6:00 p.m. at the Town of Chester Senior Center, located at 81 Laroe Road in Chester.
The event coincides with National Crime Victims’ Week, which runs from April 7-13th. This year’s theme of “Honoring Our Past. Creating Hope for the Future.” celebrates the progress that has been made as we look to a future of crime victim services that is even more inclusive, accessible, and trauma-informed.
“We are proud to partner with law enforcement officials, advocates and community members at this important event, which serves as an opportunity to show support and compassion for crime victims and their families,” Neuhaus said. “It also allows us to honor those in our community who have been victims of crime. I thank the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program for putting this important community event together.”
The vigil’s program will include guest speakers and a ceremony at a memorial tree, which will be planted beforehand. The tree represents the strong foundation of support that exists for victims and their families in Orange County.
“Many thanks to the Town of Chester for hosting this year’s Crime Victims’ Vigil,” Hoovler said. “This event provides an opportunity to share a moving and healing moment with crime victims and their families. 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 DuBois: “When reading or listening to the news, most people don’t think of the family and friends of someone victimized by crime. Orange County does remember the 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 Safe Homes of Orange County.
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.
For more information, contact Justin Rodriguez, Assistant to the County Executive for Communications and Media Relations at 845.291.3255 or jrodriguez@orangecountygov.com.
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