Neighbors from across Calhoun County will have several opportunities this week to learn about the rights of crime victims during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
The week is observed this year from April 21-27, and the Battle Creek Police Department will join others across the country in local efforts.
Learn about your rights, and meet crime victim advocates from agencies in the City of Battle Creek and elsewhere in Calhoun County. The following opportunities are planned:
- Voices Unsilenced: A Stand Against Trafficking in Battle Creek – a public event at the Battle Creek Police Department – this Wednesday, April 24, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the station, 34 N. Division St. Robin Bolz will be the speaker.
- Resource tables at Café Rica (62 E. Michigan Ave.) and Bronson Battle Creek Hospital (300 North Ave.), available Monday through Friday this week. These are hosted by advocates and community partners who will be present throughout the week.
Visitors can learn more about the great support and services in the community. - Anyone interested can also visit Love in Action Community Ministries (203 Bowers Ave.) and First Step-Summit Pointe (175 College St.) to learn more about crime victim rights.
This year’s theme is “Options, Services, and Hope” for survivors, and is an invitation for all people to help create a safe environment for victims of crime to share their experiences, and to offer them support.
NCVRW is an observance through the Office for Victims of Crime, in the U.S. Department of Justice. The William Van Regenmorter Act ensures that victims are not re-victimized by the justice system, and establishes certain rights and procedures for victims of crime and juvenile offenses. The act establishes certain responsibilities for law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, and the State Department of Corrections. Learn more at https://ovc.ojp.gov/ncvrw2023/overview
