Title: 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week Resource Guide Series: Resource Guide Author: Office for Victims of Crime and The National Center for Victims of Crime Published: March 2002 Subject: victims -- general, crime victims' rights week, victims' rights, victim services, National Crime Victims' Rights Week, resource guide 91 pages 188,416 bytes ------------------------------- Figures, charts, forms, and tables are not included in this ASCII plain-text file. To view this document in its entirety, download the Adobe Acrobat graphic file available from this Web site or order a print copy from Office for Victims of Crime Resource Center at 800-627-6872. An HTML version of this document is also available at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/ncvrw/2002/welcome.html. ------------------------------- Bringing Honor to Victims National Crime Victims' Rights Week April 21-27, 2002 Office for Victims of Crime U.S. Department of Justice National Center for Victims of Crime ------------------------------- 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week Resource Guide ------------------------------- U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs Office for Victims of Crime Washington, D.C. 20531 January 2, 2002 Dear Colleague: I am pleased to present to you the 2002 National Crime Victims ' Rights Week Resource Guide, developed for the first time in partnership with the National Center for Victims of Crime. By bringing together the most critical elements of past Office for Victims of Crime Resource Guides and the National Center's Strategies for Action Kit, this year's Resource Guide offers you a dynamic vehicle for carrying out outreach and public education campaigns in your own community. The annual commemoration of National Crime Victims' Rights Week gives us a unique opportunity to celebrate the tremendous progress made on behalf of victims and to help lend a measure of dignity and respect to their plight. This year's theme, "Bringing Honor to Victims," encapsulates the goal of the thousands of victim advocates and victims themselves who have labored over the years in an effort to gain standing and equity within the criminal justice system and in society as a whole. It points up that we are striving not simply for certain basic legal rights, but for a very fundamental sense of selfhood and humanness very often denied victims. The Office for Victims of Crime has the great privilege each year of helping to lead communities across the country in their observances of National Crime Victims' Rights Week. The terrorist attacks of September 11th, while giving a very public urgency to America's public safety concerns and underscoring the need for strong national guidance, have not changed the fact that the real force behind victim services lies in people like you who work day in and day out at the local level. There seem to be far too few opportunities to pay tribute to the men and women who have dedicated themselves to lives of help and healing. We in the Office for Victims of Crime are grateful for the chance that National Crime Victims' Rights Week gives us to do so. On behalf of all of us, thank you for all you do! Sincerely, John W. Gillis Director ------------------------------- The National Center for Victims of Crime BOARD OF DIRECTORS Howard M. Lorber Chair David T. Austem President Richard Girgenti Treasurer Hon. Laurie O. Robinson Secretary Alexander Auersperg Hon. Arnold I. Bums Hon. Richard J. Condon Hon. Robert J. Del Tufo Linda Fairstein Sarah S. Gold G. Morris Guriey Ann Hayes Alberta Davis Hogg Ala Isham Ralph H. Isham John J. Libonati Sharon Martin Frank M. Ochberg, M.D. Rey Ramsey Beverly Sills Hon. Eric Smith EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Susan Herman January 2002 Dear Colleague: The National Center for Victims of Crime is very excited to be partnering with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime, in bringing you the 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week Resource Guide. For those of you who are not familiar with the National Center, we are the nation's leading resource and advocacy organization for crime victims, dedicated to forging a national commitment to help victims of crime rebuild their lives. We invite you to learn more about us and take advantage of our resources at www.ncvc.org and through our toll-free Helpline, 1-800-FYI-CALL, which provides crime victims with supportive counseling, current information on available programs and services, direct advocacy, and referrals to more than 7,500 local victim serving organizations nationwide. This year's theme, "Bringing Honor to Victims," reminds us that we honor victims by providing comprehensive, quality services; by giving them the information they need to make their own choices; and by enacting and enforcing legal rights and protections in the justice system. Bringing honor to victims is a collective response to all victims of crime, recognizing the harm they've sustained, helping them rebuild their lives. I hope you find the ideas and resources in this Resource Guide helpful during your commemoration of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 21-27, 2002, and throughout the year. Please let us know if there are other ways we can be helpful to you. Best wishes, Susan Herman 2000 M Street, NW -- Suite 480 -- Washington, DC 20036 -- Tel. 202/467-8700 -- Fax 202/467-8701 -- www.ncvc.org ------------------------------- Resource Guide Overview ------------------------------- Dear Friend: This year, the National Center for Victims of Crime and the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime, have entered into an exciting partnership to bring you the 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week Resource Guide. In years past, the OVC-sponsored guide and the National Center's own Strategies for Action Kit have helped communities throughout the United States promote National Crime Victims' Rights Week. The 2002 Resource Guide merges the best elements of the two previously produced kits. The result, we believe, is an even more effective tool to assist local organizations in their public education and community outreach activities that focus on victims' rights, needs, and services. As we move beyond the tragic events of September 11, this 22nd anniversary of National Crime Victims' Rights Week (NCVRW) seems a particularly poignant opportunity to commemorate the progress that has been made to secure rights and services for crime victims, and to recommit ourselves to building a national commitment to help crime victims rebuild their lives. We selected "Bringing Honor to Victims" as this year's theme, not only as a way of reflecting the country's renewed spirit of patriotism, but as a way of articulating what honoring victims of crime really means. Certainly, since September 11, Americans have a heightened sense of the harsh and tragic impact of crime on its victims--how, in a single moment, one's life can be turned upside down and completely changed through an act of human cruelty. We have also witnessed an unprecedented public response to helping the September 11 victims, to give them hope--to honor them--in whatever way necessary. So, bringing honor to victims means doing right by victims, helping all victims of crime rebuild their lives . . . providing the rights, resources and programs that may never restore completely what they have lost, but will provide a compassionate response to the trauma they have experienced. This year's graphic artwork expresses many of the ways we honor victims of crime: justice, voice, respect, participation, choices, resources, advocacy, support, information, safety, counseling, restitution. "Bringing Honor to Victims" is reflected in all the Resource Guide components which can be utilized throughout the year in public education and community outreach efforts. Resource Guide Contents: (8 tabs, as they appear in your 2002 Resource Guide folder from bottom right to top left) 1. Resource Guide Overview 2. Official Recognition & Public Speaking Opportunities 3. Statistical Overview 4. Camera Ready Artwork o Logos o Buttons o Letterhead o Bumper stickers o Bookmarks o Certificate of Appreciation o National Toll-free Information and Referral Telephone Numbers o Poster 5. Working With The Media 6. Landmarks in Victims' Rights and Services 7. Special Event Ideas 8. Samples, Additional Resources o Sample Media Advisory o Sample News Release o Sample Public Service Announcements o Sample Op-Ed Column o Sample Letter Requesting a Proclamation or Resolution o Sample Proclamation o Sample Resolution o Accessing Information: OVC Resource Center and Other Services o Resource Guide Co-Sponsors Acknowledgements The National Center for Victims of Crime greatly appreciates the opportunity to partner with the U.S. Department of Justice, Office for Victims of Crime, on the 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week Resource Guide, and especially wishes to acknowledge the support of Bill Brantley, who served as our Federal Project Officer. From the National Center for Victims of Crime: Author and Editor: Mary Gleason Rappaport, Director of Communications Senior Writer: Susan Howley, Director of Public Policy Contributing Writers: Jennifer Baldassari, Media Relations Coordinator Rebecca Layton, Publications Coordinator Anton Popic, Resource Specialist This product was prepared by the National Center for Victims of Crime supported by Grant Number 2001-VR-GX-0002, awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this document are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. ------------------------------- Recognition & Speaking Opportunities ------------------------------- Official Recognition & Public Speaking Opportunities Proclamations and Resolutions Bring added awareness and recognition to your National Crime Victims' Rights Week activities with an official Proclamation or Resolution. A Proclamation is made by an elected or appointed executive, such as the Governor, County Executive, or Mayor, while a Resolution is adopted by a legislative body, such as your state legislature or county or city council. An official Proclamation or Resolution can also be an important step in securing the participation of government officials and attention by the media, adding local prestige to all your week's events. A sample Proclamation and sample Resolution are included in the Sample Section of the Resource Guide, along with a sample letter requesting a Proclamation or Resolution. Public Speaking Opportunities National Crime Victims' Rights Week provides a number of public speaking opportunities, whether as part of an annual award ceremony for friends and colleagues, or outreach to new audiences. Many local organizations put on regular meetings and conferences, and are frequently looking for outside experts to educate their membership about specific issues. Consider contacting your local Kiwanis or Rotary Clubs, the local Chamber of Commerce, or the local chapter of the League of Women Voters. Local hospitals and businesses frequently host speakers to help educate their staff members about important issues. Speech Bites While any speech should include the local concerns and achievements of crime victims and their supporters, the Speech Bites offered below can be inserted into your remarks to underscore this year's NCVRW theme, Bringing Honor to Victims. The role of victim service providers: o So much of what we do, as victim service providers, is to bring honor to victims. o When we help them access the resources they need--from financial resources like crime victim compensation or restitution, to emotional support and counseling--we bring honor to victims. o When we give them the information they need to make their own choices, we bring honor to victims. o When we help them to plan for their own safety, we bring honor to victims. o When we help them set the terms of their interaction with the media, we bring honor to victims. o When we make sure they have the opportunity to participate in the criminal justice process, and are consulted before a plea agreement is entered in their case, we bring honor to victims. o When we help provide them an opportunity to voice the harm sustained as a result of crime, we bring honor to victims. o When we support them in their quest for justice, whether in the criminal or civil court system, we bring honor to victims. o Through our advocacy efforts, when we work to ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect, we bring honor to victims. We honor victims not through an award, but through a response: o Bringing honor to victims isn't a simple ceremony. It isn't an award. It is a collective response to crime victims, recognizing the harm they've sustained, helping them rebuild. In a sense, this is what the entire crime victims' rights movement has been about: bringing honor to victims. o Providing victims the rights to be informed, present and heard in a government proceeding that significantly impacts their interests honors victims. o Thirty years ago, victims were rarely informed of court proceedings or, if they were, were not informed when those proceedings were cancelled or postponed. Victims were given the clear message that their time was not valuable. Now we routinely make an effort to keep victims informed throughout the criminal justice process. o Until recently, victims didn't have a right to speak at sentencing. While witnesses were allowed to plead for leniency for a convicted offender, the victim or survivors were told they had to remain silent about the harm they'd suffered. o Today, every state provides basic rights to victims of crime. In these areas and more, the victims' rights movement has brought honor to victims. We must do more: o But we have far to go. Until we provide some redress for victims' grievances, we do not honor victims. Violations of the rights of victims must have some consequence. Victims' rights must be meaningful, and they must be enforceable. o Our victims' rights amendment (statutes) give victims a right to be treated with fairness, dignity and respect. Do we always do that? Do we treat all victims fairly - even when they disagree with the system about the desired outcome of the case? Do we show respect for victims by seeking their input as cases progress through the system? When we can answer, "Yes, always," then we can be said to truly honor victims. Victims rights for all: o Are victims honored when they are told they only have rights when they come to the case with clean hands? When a young rape victim is told that because of her underage drinking, she'll be charged with a crime if she reports her rape? When the mother of a young murder victim is told she has no rights because her son was a gang member at the time of his murder? No. We must do more. o We must lead the nation in recognizing that no one deserves to be a victim of crime, and that all victims deserve basic rights and services. We must move the concept of victims' rights and services from a "privilege" to be conferred on those who deserve it, to a fundamental right due to all who become victims of crime. Victims of crime bring honor to us: o Many victims of crime have translated their pain into action to make a change, bringing honor to all of us. Survivors of domestic abuse have fought to ensure that future victims will be protected, creating battered women's shelters and support programs. Survivors of sexual assault have worked to ensure other victims won't have to go it alone, forming rape crisis centers and response teams. o Victims of all types of crime have banded together to guarantee that future victims would have a place in the criminal justice process, working to put crime victims' rights in state constitutions. These victims honor us, creating a safer, stronger community and a fairer, stronger criminal justice system. Reaching Out to the Faith Community Members of the clergy and religious communities are often the first people victims turn to when their lives are in crisis. As guides for the ideals of justice and compassion, leaders in the faith community can serve as important messengers during National Crime Victims' Rights Week and throughout the year. Victim advocates should contact members of the faith community to let them know how important their voices are as our communities respond to victims of crime. Faith-based Messages The following suggested faith-based messages may provide a useful starting point for faith leaders willing to speak to these issues. National Crime Victims' Rights Week: o This week, we honor victims of crime. National Crime Victims' Rights Week provides us an opportunity to reflect on those who have been confronted by darkness, and did not succumb. Those who have come face to face with evil--whether from strangers or those they thought close to them--and have found the strength to persevere. o We are a diverse community. We know we are not immune from crime. Many among us have experienced family violence, child abuse, or sexual assault, or been defrauded by someone we trusted. Some of us have even lost a friend or loved one to drunk driving or homicide. We know that the journey of healing and restoration can be long, and we as a community must be willing to support each other on that journey. Our response: o When we as a people of faith respond to crime victims, we say to them, "What happened to you was wrong, and we will stand with you. We will help you to rebuild your lives. We will help you to regain your faith. o We say to victims we support your quest for justice. Justice is not vengeance, it is righteous. It is holding perpetrators accountable for the harm they have caused. o We can be the rock that supports victims of crime as they work to restore their sense of safety, of order, and of community. We can support victims in the decisions they make during their recovery, and to ask them what they need from us. ------------------------------- Statistical Overview ------------------------------- Crime and Victimization in America Statistical Overview o General o Cost of Crime o Corrections o Child Victimization o Domestic Violence o Drunk Driving o Elder Victimization o Gun Violence o Hate Crime o Homicide o Identity Theft o Property Crime o Same-sex Domestic Violence o School-based Violence o Sexual Violence o Stalking o Substance Abuse and Crime o Teen Victimization o Workplace Violence o Legislative Summary General o A total of 25.9 million violent and property victimizations occurred in the United States in 2000. Compared with the previous year, violent crime declined 15%, and property crime 10%.[1] o Almost every demographic group examined experienced a decline in violent crime rates in 2000. The rate of personal victimization was 29.1 per 1000 people. The decline in property crime rate was likewise experienced by most demographic segments. The rate of property victimization was 178.1 per 1000.[2] o Of all victims of violent crimes, 48% reported the crime to the police. Of property crime victims, 36% filed a report.[3] o Only a minority (23%) of violent crime victims faced an armed offender. The least likely to be victimized by an armed offender were rape/sexual assault victims (6%), while the most likely to face an armed offender were victims of robbery (55%).[4] o Persons age 12 to 19 experienced all crimes at rates significantly higher than other age groups.[5] o During 1999, an estimated 43.8 million people 16 or older had contact with the police. Of those, 19% (8.3 million) had contact to report a crime, 3% (1.3 million) because they had witnessed a crime, and 3% (1.3 million) were questioned as a crime suspect.[6] o One in four victims of violent crime are injured during the crime. Females injured during a violent crime were more likely to have been victimized by an intimate partner (37%) than by strangers (24%). The opposite was the case with male victims: a minority were injured by intimate partners (4%), while the majority (56%) were injured by a stranger. Non-intimate family members or acquaintances made up 39% of assailants for injured women, and 40% for injured men.[7] o Analysis of crime victimization statistics between 1993 and 1998 reveals that most (66%) violent crime against whites and most (76%) violent crime against blacks was committed by an offender of the victim's own race. The opposite was true for Native American and Asian American victims; they were primarily victimized by members of a different race.[8] o In 1999, approximately 4.1% of injury-related emergency room visits were due to assaults. The leading reason for assault related injuries was an unarmed fight or brawl.[9] Cost of Crime o The estimated annual direct cost of child abuse and neglect in the United States amounts to $24,384,347,302; indirect cost to $69,692,535,227; for a total of $94,076,882,529.[10] o Internet auction fraud cost consumers $4 million in 2000.[11] o Total loss because of telemarketing fraud was $5,679,855 and average loss was $1,462.[12] o While women and men were equally likely to lose pay as a result of suffering injuries due to workplace violence, women lost less money ($358 compared to $1,032 lost by men). However, women lost more money ($2,716) than men ($1,278) when it came to lost time from work for reasons other than bodily injury.[13] o In 2000, the total amount paid by Victim Compensation programs was $295,447,580. Of that, $141,310,762 was for medical expenses, $48,738,160 for mental health expenses; $46,083,821 for economic support (lost wages, loss of support); $39,345,851 for funeral expenses; $3,467,410 for crime scene cleanup; $4,759,393 for forensic exams; and $11,742,183 for other purposes.[14] o Victims of burglary lost almost $3 billion in 2000. The average dollar loss per incident was $1,462.[15] o In 2000, the average value of property stolen as a result of larceny-theft was $735. Cumulatively, more than $5.1 billion was stolen as a result of larceny theft.[16] o Nearly $7.8 billion worth of motor vehicles was stolen in 2000. The average value per vehicle was $6,682.[17] o The average monetary value for all types of structures damaged by arson was $19,479.[18] Corrections o At midyear 2000, 1,931,859 people were incarcerated in prisons and jails.[19] o Between midyear 1999 and midyear 2000, the U.S. prison populations rose by 2.3 %, the smallest annual increase in a decade.[20] o Over the ten year period (between 1990 and 2000) the rate of incarceration in prison and jail rose from 1 in 218 U.S. residents to 1 in 142.[21] o Census studies of privately operated prisons showed 76,010 incarcerated persons, which represents a 9.1% increase since 1999.[22] o In 2000, 1,297 males per 100,000 men and 110 females per 100,000 women were incarcerated.[23] o The number of inmates under age 18 fell 6.6% between June 1999 and June 2000.[24] o Sixteen percent (191,000) of state prisoners, were identified as mentally ill at midyear 2000. Of those, 79% were receiving therapy or counseling, and 60% were receiving psychotropic medications.[25] o On December 31, 2000, 3,839,532 men and women were on probation, and 725,527 on parole.[26] o Of probationers, 52% had been convicted of a felony, 46% of a misdemeanor, and 2% of other infractions.[27] o Of parolees, 97% had been convicted of a felony.[28] Child Victimization o There were an estimated 826,000 victims of child maltreatment across the nation in 1999. The rate of victimization was 11.8 per 1,000 children, which represents a 6.3% drop since the preceding year.[29] o An estimated 1,100 children died of abuse and neglect in 1999.[30] o Of child maltreatment victims, 482,384 children (58.4%) suffered neglect, 175,938 children (21.3%) were victims of physical abuse, and 93,338 (11.3%) were sexually abused.[31] o Children age 0-3 were maltreated at the highest rates (13.9 per 1,000); rates declined as the age increased.[32] o Girls and boys were maltreated at similar rates with the exception of sexual abuse. Girls were sexually abused at the rate of 1.6 per 1,000 compared to 0.4 per 1,000 for boys.[33] o Almost 9/10 of all victims of child maltreatment were maltreated by at least one parent. Females were the perpetrator in 3/5 of cases (61.8%).[34] o Analysis of aggregate National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) data from 12 states for 1997 shows that the majority of crimes against children reported to the police are physical assaults (73%), while the minority are sexual abuse (23%).[35] o For reported incidents, according to data from NIBRS, 3% of intimate partner assaults include a child abuse victim. Of police-reported child abuse cases, 13% also include an intimate partner assault.[36] o Seven percent of physical assaults and 10% of sexual assaults against children reported to the police involve more than one child. Multiple victim assaults are more prevalent against younger child victims.[37] o According to the latest update of a longitudinal study on the cycle of violence, being abused or neglected as a child increased the likelihood of juvenile arrest by 59%, adult arrest by 28%, and for a violent crime by 30%. Victims of physical abuse were most likely to have an arrest for violence (while victims of sexual abuse were least likely).[38] o Babysitters accounted for 4.2% of offenders who committed crimes against children under 6, and 0.5% of those who perpetrated crimes against juveniles (under 18).[39] o Almost one in five (19%) of young Internet users received an unwanted sexual solicitation in the past year. Three percent of the youth received a solicitation that involved offline contact or attempts or requests for offline contact. None of the solicitations resulted in a sexual contact or assault.[40] o In 97% of cases, solicitors were strangers; 2/3 were males. Of these, 24% were adults, and 48% juveniles. Females were identified as solicitors in one quarter of aggressive solicitations.[41] o The physical location of the victim while using a computer was: 70% at own home, 30% at someone else's home. The cyber-location of the victims was a chat room in two-thirds of the solicitations, while 24% of solicitations were received through instant messages.[42] o Almost half (49%) of all sexual solicitations were not revealed to anyone, while 24% were revealed to parents.[43] o Seven percent of cases of animal cruelty in 2000 involved child abuse. Perpetrators abused children and/or forced the victim to witness cruelty to animal(s).[44] Domestic Violence o In 2000, 10% (655,350) of violent crime victims were victimized by an intimate. Twenty-one percent of violent crimes committed against females were committed by an intimate partner, while males experienced violent victimization by intimates in 3% of cases.[45] o One in seven intimate partner victimizations of a woman involved a weapon, and about one half of these resulted in a bodily injury.[46] o Women age 16 to 24 were the most vulnerable (15.7 per 1,000) to non-lethal intimate partner violence between 1993 and 1999.[47] o Women who are separated were victimized by an intimate at rates significantly higher than divorced, never married, or married women.[48] o In a study focused on arguments in which both partners engaged in physical violence, full time employed people were less likely to experience family violence, while those working and receiving welfare benefits were more likely to experience family violence relative to other employment status groups.[49] o The same study found that the number of children in the household, alcohol consumption, and previous history of engaging in violent arguments are all significant predictors of family violence. By contrast, satisfaction with social support from family and friends decreases violent family arguments.[50] o According to NIBRS data, 3% of intimate partner assaults include a child abuse victim, and 13% of child abuse cases also include an intimate partner assault.[51] o Findings of a study on deterrent effects of arrest on intimate partner violence found that the arrest of the suspect (and any subsequent confinement) reduced the incidence of future aggression by 30%, according to victim interviews. According to police records, arrests may have decreased the amount of times the police had to intervene subsequently by between 4% and 10%.[52] o Domestic violence was a factor in 13% of animal cruelty cases in 2000.[53] Drunk Driving o In 1999, 30% (12,321) of all traffic fatalities occurred in crashes in which a driver or non-occupant was intoxicated. When including crashes where a driver or non-occupant had been drinking but their BAC was below 0.10, a total of 15,786 (38%) of all traffic fatalities involved alcohol.[54] o Night-time fatal crashes are more likely to involve alcohol (49%) than day-time fatal crashes (11%). Similarly, alcohol is more prevalent in weekend fatal crashes (41%) when compared to weekday fatal crashes (22%).[55] o Twenty percent of male drivers involved in fatal crashes and ten percent of female drivers in fatal crashes were intoxicated in 1999.[56] o The percentage of drunk drivers is highest at ages 21-24 (27%). When age clusters are considered, drivers in the 21-44 age group are more likely to be intoxicated than drivers in the 15-20 age group and the drivers in the 45+ age group.[57] o Of probationers in 2000, 18% had been convicted of driving under the influence.[58] Elder Victimization o Close to 121,000 Americans age 65 and older experienced violent crime in 2000.[59] o In 1999, strangers perpetrated 57.7% of violent crimes against the elderly.[60] o In 2000, 574 eldercides were committed.[61] o In 2000, people older than 60 made up 35% of telemarketing fraud victims.[62] o One percent of animal cruelty cases in 2000 also involved elder abuse, where the perpetrator forced the victim to witness cruelty to animals.[63] Gun Violence o Overall, offenders had firearms in 8% of violent crimes. Of sexual assaults, 3% involved a firearm; of robberies, 26%, and of simple and aggravated assault 6% were firearm-related.[64] o About 2% (153,000) of 7.7 million applications for firearms permits or transfers were rejected last year. Among the categories of ineligible firearm owners are persons who are under indictment for or have been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than one year; fugitives from justice; persons subject to a court order restraining him or her from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner or child; and persons who have been convicted in any court of a felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.[65] o Since 1974, there have been 37 incidents of targeted school violence. These incidents involved 41 attackers, ages 11 to 21, and took place in 26 states. The gun used by the attacker was from their own home or a relative's home in almost two thirds of the incidents.[66] o Sixty-six percent of homicide victims were murdered with a firearm.[67] o About 18% of state prisoners and 15% of federal prisoners reported that they were armed at the time of offense. Of state prisoners, 9% fired their weapon during the commission of the crime, and of federal prisoners 2% did likewise.[68] o Thirty percent of state inmates and 35% of federal inmates incarcerated for a violent crime reported they used or possessed a gun at the time of crime.[69] o Of state inmates who victimized an intimate partner, 27% were armed while committing the crime.[70] o Forty percent of state inmates and 56% of federal inmates who were armed during the offense received sentence enhancements because of firearm use.[71] o On average, sentences for inmates who had firearms were 18 years of incarceration, compared to 12 years for those without such weapons.[72] Hate Crime o In 2000, 8,154 hate crime incidents were reported to the police. Sixty-five percent of hate motivated offenses were offenses against persons, 34% were against property, and 0.6% were against society.[73] o Of reported hate crimes, 54% were motivated by race, 18% by religion, 16% by sexual orientation, 11% by ethnicity, 0.4% by disability, and 8 incidents had multiple biases.[74] o The number of anti-Semitic incidents that 44 states and the District of Columbia reported to the Anti-Defamation League was 1,606. This represents a 4% increase over a year.[75] o Of anti-Semitic incidents in 2000, 877 (54.6%) were acts of harassment (intimidation, threats, and assaults) and 729 (45.4%) were acts of vandalism (property damage as well as arson and cemetery desecration).[76] o College campuses experienced a 15% rise in anti-Semitic incidents in 2000, for a total of 69 acts.[77] o There were 2,151 incidents against 2,475 gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals in 2000. These incidents were committed by 3,344 offenders.[78] o While the number of anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender incidents reported to police in 2000 declined only slightly from 1999 levels (-1%), police refused complaints in 49% more instances.[79] o Sixty-four percent of the victims of anti-gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender violence were male and 77.5% identified themselves as gay or lesbian.[80] o There were 602 active hate groups, and 194 active "Patriot" groups in 2000. Activity included marches, rallies, speeches, meetings, leafleting, publishing literature or criminal acts.[81] Homicide o There were 15,517 murders committed in 2000.[82] o Males comprised 76% of murder victims.[83] o Forty-four percent of murders in 2000 were committed against the victim by a non-stranger.[84] o Homicide remains the leading cause of death for black males 15-24 years old, the second leading cause for black females 15-24, and the third leading cause for black males 25-44.[85] o A study of pregnancy-associated mortality found that homicide was the leading cause of death among pregnant women. Twenty percent of pregnant women who died during this period were murdered.[86] o The number of workplace homicides increased for the first time in six years (from 651 in 1999 to 677 in 2000).[87] o Between 1976 and 1998, 1,820 law enforcement officers were murdered. On average, the number of murdered police officers was 79 per year. The rate is on the decline.[88] o The majority of murdered police officers were killed with a firearm (92%). On average, 12% were killed with their own firearm.[89] o Of all murdered police officers, 39% were killed during an arrest situation, 16% responding to disturbance calls (bar fights, man with gun, family quarrel), 14% investigating suspicious persons/circumstances, and 14% during traffic pursuits/stops.[90] o Analysis of school-associated student homicides shows that an average of one homicide event occurs every seven school days. School-associated homicides increase at the beginning of the school year and near the transition between the fall and the spring semester, notably, after summer and winter breaks.[91] o Of relationship violence victims, women age 35 to 49 are the most vulnerable to murder by intimate partners.[92] Identity Theft o The Federal Trade Commission received more than 40,000 identity theft complaints during 2000.[93] o The most common types of identity theft complaints received by the Federal Trade Commission in 2000 were: credit card fraud (50%); unauthorized phone or utility services (25%); bank fraud (16%); fraudulent loans (9%); government documents (8%). About half of the complainants experienced multiple types of identity theft.[94] o The average age of identity theft complainants was 41. Of all age groups, 31-40 year olds experienced the highest percentage of identity theft (28.7%), while the least victimized by identity theft were those 18 year and younger (1.8%).[95] o Slightly more than 19% of victims of identity theft (who had provided this information) had a personal relationship with the suspect (family member; roommate; co-habitant; neighbor; co-worker/employer/employee, and otherwise known).[96] Property Crime o In 2000, close to 3.5 million household burglaries, 937,000 motor vehicle thefts, and 14,916,000 thefts were committed in the United States.[97] o Households earning less than $7,500 and those earning more than $75,000 are equally likely (1 in about 4.5) and more likely than any other household income category to be a victim of property crime.[98] o The clearance rate for reported burglaries in 2000 was 13.4%.[99] o For larceny-theft, the national clearance rate in 2000 was 18.2%.[100] o In 2000, 1,165,559 motor vehicle thefts were reported to law enforcement. Law enforcement agencies had a clearance rate of 14.1%.[101] o Nationwide, 78,280 arsons were reported to law enforcement in 2000. The clearance rate for reported arson incidents was 16.5%.[102] o In 2000, 345,732 persons were arrested on charges of fraud, and 18,952 on charges of embezzlement.[103] Same-Sex Domestic Violence o Organizations participating in the National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs reported 4,048 cases of domestic violence affecting gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals in 2000. Compared with the previous year, there was a 29.7% increase in reports.[104] o Females represented 46.8% of domestic violence victims reported, while males accounted for 47.9%. An additional 3% self identified as transgender.[105] o The age distribution of same sex domestic violence victims was: 44.5% were between the ages of 30 and 44, 14.5% were aged 23 to 29, and 9.1% between 18 and 22, 8.7% between 45 and 64, 0.4% were over the age of 65, while those under 18 amounted to 1.7%.[106] o The plurality of victims (43.7%) were white, 15.1% were Latino, followed by African Americans (11.1%), and Asian Pacific Islanders (2.9%).[107] o Between 1993 and 1999, the National Crime Victimization Survey recorded an average of 13,740 male victims and 16,900 of female victims of same gender intimate partner violence.[108] School-Based Violence o Students ages 12 through 18 experienced approximately 2.5 million crimes at school in 1999. Of these, 186,000 were serious violent crimes (aggravated assault, rape, robbery, and sexual assault), and 33 were homicides which involved school-aged children.[109] o Seventeen percent of students ages 12 through 18 reported the presence of gangs at their schools in 1999.[110] o In a study of 15,686 youth in grades 6 through 10, 29% of the sample disclosed moderate or frequent involvement in bullying. Thirteen percent were involved as perpetrators, 10.6% as victims, and 6.3% as both.[111] o The results of a survey show that 74% of children age 8 to 11 reported the occurrence of teasing and bullying at their school. Among 12 to 15 year olds, this percentage rises to 84. Children in both age groups ranked bullying as a problem bigger than racism, AIDS, the pressure to try alcohol and drugs, or to have sex.[112] o Analysis of school-associated student homicides shows that an average of one homicide event occurs every seven school days. School-associated homicides increase at the beginning of the school year and near the transition between the fall and the spring semester, notably, after summer and winter breaks.[113] o Since 1974, there have been 37 incidents of targeted school violence. These incidents involved 41 attackers, ages 11 to 21, and took place in 26 states.[114] o All of the incidents of targeted school violence (incidents of violence where a known attacker selects a particular target prior to their violent attack) were committed by boys or young men. More than three-fourths of incidents were preplanned by the attacker. Revenge was the motive in more than half of the cases. The attacker perceived himself to be persecuted, threatened, bullied, injured or attacked by others before the incident.[115] o The gun used by the attacker was from their own home or a relative's home in almost 2/3 of the incidents.[116] Sexual Violence o According to the victimization survey, 261,000 rapes and sexual assaults occurred in the United States in 2000.[117] o In 2000, 17% of rape or sexual assault victims were victimized by an intimate. Women were raped or sexually assaulted by an intimate more frequently than men (18% vs. 0%).[118] o Police recorded 90,186 incidents of forcible rape in 2000. Of these reports, 46.9% resulted in an arrest of at least one person.[119] o Findings from a study of 3,006 women revealed that a rape victim was 9 times more likely to receive timely medical care if she reported the assault to the police or other authorities. Three out of four victims in this study who reported the rape to police received medical care whereas only 15% of rape victims who did not report the crime received post-rape medical care.[120] o The National College Women Victimization Study showed that 2.8% of college women experienced rape during the six month period in which the study was conducted. Of victims, 22.8% were victims of multiple rapes. If this data is calculated for a calendar year period, nearly 5% of college women are victimized during any given calendar year.[121] o Among college women, 9 in 10 victims of rape and sexual assault knew their offender. Almost 13% of completed rapes, 35% of attempted rapes, and 22.9% of threatened rapes happened during a date.[122] o Off-campus sexual victimization is much more common among college women than on-campus victimization. Of victims of completed rape 33.7% were victimized on campus, and 66.3% off campus.[123] o Less than 5% of completed or attempted rapes against college women were reported to law enforcement. However, in 2/3 of the incidents the victim did tell another person, usually a friend, not family or school officials.[124] o Most campuses (79%) provide for formal disciplinary hearing for sexual assault cases, and 28% offer the option of an informal hearing.[125] o Sixty percent of institutions of higher learning allow the accused to bring an attorney to the hearing, while the same right is granted to 54% of victims. In 94% of institutions, hearings are closed.[126] o Preponderance of evidence is the standard used by just over half of the boards adjudicating sexual assault cases on campuses.[127] Stalking o A study that examined the experiences of female victims stalked by intimate partners found that 72.7% of victims were verbally threatened with physical violence (direct or implied). Almost 46% of victims experienced one or more violent incidents by the stalker. Thirty-seven percent of victims sustained physical injuries as a result.[128] o Victims reported that their stalkers abused alcohol in 57.8% of cases, and abused drugs in 51.3% of cases.[129] o Slightly more than 13% of the female students in a study of college women had been victims of stalking. However, if the definition of stalking must include a threat of harm (as is the case in many states) the extent of stalking among college females of stalking declines to 1.96%.[130] o Four in five college stalking victims know their offender. Of known stalkers, 42.5% were boyfriends or former boyfriends, 24.5% classmates, 10.3% were acquaintances, 5.6% friends, and 5.6% co-workers.[131] o The most common forms of stalking of college women were being unwantedly contacted by telephone (77.7%); having an offender waiting outside or inside buildings (47.9%); being watched from afar (44%); being followed (42%); being sent letters (30.7%); and being e-mailed (24.7%). As a consequence of stalking, 3 in 10 victims reported emotional or psychological injuries.[132] o Only 10.3% of female college victims of stalking took any kind of legal/judicial action.[133] Substance Abuse and Crime o Slightly more than 28% of offenders who committed crimes of violence were perceived to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol by their victims. Perpetrators of aggravated assault were most likely (32.2%) to be under the influence at the time of crime.[134] o Victims reported that their stalkers abused alcohol in 57.8% of cases, and abused drugs in 51.3% of cases.[135] o Adolescent girls who had experienced physical dating violence and girls who had experienced sexual dating violence exhibited problems with substance use such as heavy smoking, heavy drinking, driving after drinking, and cocaine use.[136] o When controlling for other factors, chronic drug users (users of cocaine and/or opiates on at least a weekly basis during the preceding year and tested positive on a urine screen) are 9 times more likely than non-chronic drug users (never used cocaine or opiates, have no visible track marks, tested negative for cocaine or opiates, but may have used marijuana or other drugs) to have ever robbed someone, almost 5 times more likely to have ever shot someone, and more than twice as likely to have committed any other violent acts. However, chronic drug users are at the same time almost twice more likely to have ever been beaten, more than 2.5 times likely to have been shot or raped, and almost 1.5 times more likely to have been robbed.[137] Teen Victimization o In a study of high school students' responses to dating violence, 43% of victims reported seeking help informally, 37% broke up or threatened to break up with the date, 35% responded aggressively, 32% were passive, and 8% sought help formally. Gender wise, girls were far more likely to respond aggressively (42%) than boys (26%). On the other hand, males took no action more often (24%) than females (6%). Also, more females (28%) than males (21%) reacted to dating aggression by breaking up.[138] o The rate of violent victimization in 2000 was highest in persons age 16-19 (64.3 in 1,000), and persons age 12-15 (60.1 in 1,000) than among any other age group.[139] o The Youth Risk Behavior Survey administered in Massachusetts to 9th through 12th-grade students found that 1 in 5 female public high school students experienced physical and/or sexual violence from a date. About 1 in 10 girls experienced physical violence only, while 1 in 25 experienced sexual violence exclusively. The survey did not assess the gender of victims' dating partners.[140] o Girls who had experienced physical dating violence exhibited problems with substance use, unhealthy weight control, sexual risk behavior, pregnancy, and suicidality. Similarly, experiencing sexual violence was a predictor of substance abuse, diet pill use, sexual risk behavior, and suicidality among adolescent girls.[141] o Between 24% and 40% of males involved in gang/group fights had been seriously injured, while approximately 12% of those who had not been involved in such fights had been seriously injured. Among females, 27% of those involved in gang/group fights had been seriously injured, while 8% of those who had not been involved in such fights had been seriously injured.[142] o Males who carried weapons were approximately three times more likely to be victimized than those who did not carry weapons -- 27% to 33% of weapons carriers became victims, as opposed to only 10% among those who did not carry weapons. Of females who carried weapons, 21% had been victims, and of those who did not carry weapons, only 6% had been victims.[143] o While only 6% to 8% of males with no risk factors were victimized, 50% to 70% who had four or more risk factors had been victimized. Among females with no risk factors, 5% had become victims; among those with one risk factor, 10% had become victims; and among those with two or more risk factors, 42% had become victims.[144] Workplace Violence o According to the data from the National Crime Victimization Survey from 1992 through 1996, males were more likely than females to be the victims of repeated violent crime in the workplace. Almost 22% of men, and 15.1% of women experienced aggravated assault at work. However, more women (6.3%) than men (0.6%) were victims of rape or sexual assault on the job.[145] o In teaching, law enforcement, and retail, women were more likely than men in the same occupation to be the victims of robbery. Similarly, in law enforcement and transportation, women were more likely than men to be the victims of simple assault.[146] o Fifty-eight percent of violent acts against males in the workplace resulted in injury compared to 53% of acts against females. However, a higher percentage of women who were injured (26%) than men (24%) lost time from work as a result. Women lost an average of 22 days of work compared to an average of eight days for men.[147] o While women and men were equally likely to lose pay as a result of suffering injuries due to workplace violence, women lost less money ($358 compared to $1,032 lost by men). However, women lost more money ($2,716) than men ($1,278) when it came to lost time from work for reasons other than bodily injury.[148] o Household members of women involved in incidents of workplace violence were more likely than those of men to lose time from work (1% compared to 0.3%).[149] o The number of workplace homicides increased for the first time in six years (from 651 in 1999 to 677 in 2000).[150] o For those workplace homicides where the motive could be ascertained, robbery was the initial motive in 291 cases.[151] Legislative Summary[152] o Thirty-two states have constitutional rights for crime victims. o Every state and the District of Columbia allow victim impact statements at sentencing. Forty-eight states and the District of Columbia permit victim input concerning parole. In seven of those states, victims may submit electronically recorded impact statements for consideration by the paroling authority. o In at least 26 states, a victim's right to confer with the prosecutor requires a prosecutor to obtain the victim's views concerning the proposed plea. Twenty-three states specifically give victims the right to be heard or to have their views presented to the court at a hearing on the acceptance of the plea agreement. o In 41 states, victims are to be notified of canceled or rescheduled hearings. o As of June 2001, 39 states have enacted legislation related to identity theft. Twenty-one states consider identity theft a felony, while five states treat the crime as a misdemeanor. In the remaining 13 states, varying classifications and penalties are imposed depending on the degree of violation, with the value of the property stolen being the most common determining factor. Fifteen states have legislation that specifically requires the offender to make restitution to the victim of the identity theft. o All states and the District of Columbia have adopted laws requiring HIV testing of certain sex offenders. o Forty-one states and the District of Columbia give crime victims the right to attend the trial. In some of these states, a victim is still subject to exclusion if scheduled to testify as a witness. o Convicted sex offenders are required to register with state or local law enforcement in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Each state and the District of Columbia have also enacted laws providing for community notification of the release of sex offenders or allow public access to sex offender registration. Twenty-nine states maintain sex offender registry web sites, while eight states maintain sex offender web sites with limited information. o Restitution orders in 43 states may be enforced in the same manner as civil judgments. Juvenile offenders may be ordered to pay restitution in 48 states, and the child's parent or legal guardian may be held responsible for a portion of such restitution in 32 states. In addition, civil liability for personal injury, property damage, or both resulting from a child's intentional act may be imposed against the child's parent or guardian in 49 states and the District of Columbia. o Victims are provided notice of the escape of a convicted offender in 48 states, although only 23 of those states require notification of victims when the offender is recaptured. Twenty-one states require victim notification when an offender escapes from a mental health facility, institution, or state hospital. o Courts in 43 states and the District of Columbia must consider evidence of domestic violence when determining child custody issues. o Stalking is a crime in every state and the District of Columbia. Eight states create a specific civil cause of action for stalking. At least 40 states now have laws that explicitly include electronic forms of communication within their stalking or harassment laws. o Separate or secure waiting areas are to be provided where possible to minimize contact between victims and the offenders family members or friends during court proceedings in 39 states. o Forty-six states have enacted legislation providing employment intercession services, and in some states, employment protection, for victims in an attempt to minimize the risk of employment termination, harassment, and loss of wages or benefits to victims absent from work to attend criminal judicial proceedings or participate in other prosecution- related activities. o Individuals in dating relationships can obtain protective orders against their abusers in 30 states. Of those, 20 states provide mechanisms for minors in dating relationships to secure such protection. Notes 1. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999- 2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 2. Ibid. 3. Ibid. 4. Ibid. 5. Ibid. 6. Durose, Matthew, Greenfeld, Lawrence, Langan, Patrick, Levin, David, Smith, Steven. (2001). Contact between Police and the Public, Findings from the 1999 National Survey. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 7. Simon, Thomas, Mercy, James. (2001). Injuries from Violent Crime, 1992-98. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 8. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Violent Victimization and Race, 1993-98. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 9. McCaig, Linda, Burt, Catharine. (2001). National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey: 1999 Emergency Department Summary. Washington, D.C.: Department of Health and Human Services. 10. Prevent Child Abuse America. (2001). Total Estimated Cost of Child Abuse and Neglect in the United States. [On-line]. Available: http://www.preventchildabuse.org/research_ctr/cost_analysis.pdf. 11. Federal Trade Commission. (2001). Identity Theft Complaint Data: Figures and Trends on Identity Theft January 2000 through December 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Trade Commission. 12. National Fraud Information Center. (2001). Telemarketing Fraud Statistics. [On-line]. Available: http://www.fraud.org/telemarketing/teleset.htm. 13. Fisher, Bonnie, Gunnison, Elaine. (2001). "Violence in the Workplace Gender Similarities and Differences." Journal of Criminal Justice 29: 145-155. 14. National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards. Dan Eddy (personal communication, August 29, 2001). 15. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 16. Ibid. 17. Ibid. 18. Ibid. 19. Beck, Allen, Karberg, Jennifer. (2001). Prison and Jail Inmates at Midyear 2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 20. Ibid. 21. Ibid. 22. Ibid. 23. Ibid. 24. Ibid. 25. Beck, Allen, Maruschak, Laura. (2001). Mental Health Treatment in State Prisons, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 26. Bureau of Justice Statistics. (August 26, 2001). National Correctional Population Reaches New High, Grows by 126,400 During 2000 to Total 6.5 million adults. Press Release. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 27. Ibid. 28. Ibid. 29. Children's Bureau. (2001). Child Maltreatment 1999: Reports From the States to the National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System. Washington, D.C.: Children's Bureau, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 30. Ibid. 31. Ibid. 32. Ibid. 33. Ibid. 34. Ibid. 35. Finkelhor, David, Ormrod, Richard. (2001). Child Abuse Reported to the Police. Washington, D.C.: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice. 36. Ibid. 37. Ibid. 38. Widom, Cathy, Maxfield, Michael. (2001). An Update on the Cycle of Violence. Washington, D.C.: National Institute of Justice, U.S. Department of Justice. 39. Finkelhor, David, Ormrod, Richard. (2001). Crimes Against Children by Babysitters. Washington, D.C.: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice. 40. Finkelhor, David, Mitchell, Kimberly, Wolak, Janis. (2001). Highlights of the Youth Internet Safety Survey. Washington, D.C.: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice. 41. Ibid. 42. Ibid. 43. Ibid. 44. Humane Society of the United States. (2001). First Strike Campaign: 2000 Report of Animal Cruelty, Executive Summary. [On-line]. Available: http://www.hsus.org/firststrike/2001Week/2000report.pdf 45. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999-2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 46. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Intimate Partner Violence and Age of Victim, 1993-99. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 47. Ibid. 48. Ibid. 49. Rodriguez, E; Lasch, K, Chandra, P, Lee, J. (2001). Family Violence, Employment Status, Welfare Benefits, and Alcohol Drinking in the United States: What is the Relation? Ithaca, NY: The Health Institute/Division of Clinical Care Research of the New England Medical Center. 50. Ibid. 51. Finkelhor, David, Ormrod, Richard. (2001). Child Abuse Reported to the Police. Washington, D.C.: Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, U.S. Department of Justice. 52. Maxwell, Christopher, Garner, Joel, Fagan, Jeffrey. (2001). The Effects of Arrest on Intimate Partner Violence: New Evidence from the Spouse Assault Replication Program. Washington, D.C.: National Institute of Justice, U.S. Department of Justice. 53. Humane Society of the United States. (2001). First Strike Campaign: 2000 Report of Animal Cruelty, Executive Summary. [On-line]. Available: http://www.hsus.org/firststrike/2001Week/2000report.pdf 54. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2001). Alcohol Involvement in Fatal Crashes 1999. Washington, DC: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation. 55. Ibid. 56. Ibid. 57. Ibid. 58. Bureau of Justice Statistics. (August 26, 2001). National Correctional Population Reaches New High, Grows by 126,400 During 2000 to Total 6.5 million adults. Press Release. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 59. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999-2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 60. Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2001). Criminal Victimization in United States, 1999: Statistical Tables. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 61. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 62. National Fraud Information Center. (2001). Telemarketing Fraud Statistics. [On-line]. Available: http://www.fraud.org/telemarketing/teleset.htm 63. Humane Society of the United States. (2001). First Strike Campaign: 2000 Report of Animal Cruelty, Executive Summary. [On-line]. Available: http://www.hsus.org/firststrike/2001Week/2000report.pdf 64. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999-2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 65. Bowling, Michael. (2001). Background Checks for Firearm Transfers, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 66. U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center. (2000). Safe School Initiative: An Interim Report on the Prevention of Targeted Violence in School. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Departments of Treasury and Education with the support from the National Institute of Justice. 67. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 68. Harlow, Caroline. (2001). Firearm Use by Offenders. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 69. Ibid. 70. Ibid. 71. Ibid. 72. Ibid. 73. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 74. Ibid. 75. Foxman, Abraham, Tobias, Glen. (2000). Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents. New York, NY: Anti-Defamation League. 76. Ibid. 77. Ibid. 78. Moore, Ken. (2001). Anti-Lesbian, Gay, Transgender and Bisexual Violence in 2000. New York, NY: New York City Gay and Lesbian Anti- Violence Project. 79. Ibid. 80. Ibid. 81. Southern Poverty Law Center. (2001). Intelligence Report. Issue 103, Fall. 82. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 83. Ibid. 84. Ibid. 85. Kochanek, Kenneth, Smith, Betty, Anderson, Robert. (2001). Deaths: Preliminary Data for 1999. Washington, D.C.: Department of Health and Human Services. 86. Horon, Isabelle, Chome, Diana. (2001). "Enhanced Surveillance for Pregnancy-Associated Mortality--Maryland, 1993-1998". JAMA 225 (11): 1455- 1459. 87. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2001). National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in 2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. 88. Brown, Jodi, Langan, Patrick. (2001). Policing and Homicide, 1976-98: Justifiable Homicide by Police, Police Officers Murdered by Felons. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 89. Ibid. 90. Ibid. 91. Centers for Disease Control. (2001). Temporal Variations in School-Associated Student Homicide and Suicide Events-United States, 1992-1999. [On-line]. Available: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5031a1.htm 92. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Intimate Partner Violence and Age of Victim, 1993-99. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 93. Federal Trade Commission. (2001). Identity Theft Complaint Data: Figures and Trends on Identity Theft January 2000 through December 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Trade Commission. 94. Ibid. 95. Ibid. 96. Ibid. 97. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999-2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 98. Ibid. 99. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 100. Ibid. 101. Ibid. 102. Ibid. 103. Ibid. 104. Moore. Ken. (2001). Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Domestic Violence in 2000. New York, NY: National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs. 105. Ibid. 106. Ibid. 107. Ibid. 108. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Intimate Partner Violence and Age of Victim, 1993-99. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 109. Kaufman et al. (2001). Indicators of School Crime and Safety: 2001. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Departments of Education and Justice. 110. Ibid. 111. Nansel, Tonja et al. (2001). "Bullying Behaviors Among US Youth: Prevalence and Association With Psychological Adjustment." JAMA 285 (16): 2094-2100. 112. Kaiser Family Foundation. (2001). Talking With Kids About Tough Issues: A National Survey of Parents and Kids. [On-line]. Available: http://www.talkingwithkids.org 113. Centers for Disease Control. (2001). Temporal Variations in School-Associated Student Homicide and Suicide Events-United States, 1992-1999. [On-line]. Available: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5031a1.htm 114. U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center. (2000). Safe School Initiative: An Interim Report on the Prevention of Targeted Violence in School. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Departments of Treasury and Education with the support from the National Institute of Justice. 115. Ibid. 116. Ibid. 117. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999-2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice 118. Ibid. 119. Federal Bureau of Investigation. (2000). Crime in the United States, 2000. Washington, D.C.: Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice. 120. Resnick et al. (2000). "Predictors of post-rape medical care in a national sample of women." American Journal of Preventive Medicine 19 (4): 224. 121. Fisher, Bonnie, Cullen, Francis, Turner, Michael. (2000). The Sexual Victimization of College Women. Washington, D.C.: National Institute of Justice and Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 122. Ibid. 123. Ibid. 124. Ibid. 125. Penney, Sophie, Tucker, Lawrence, Lowery, John. (2000). National Baseline Study on Campus Sexual Assault: Adjudication of Sexual Assault Cases. College Station, TX: Association for Student Judicial Affairs. 126. Ibid. 127. Ibid. 128. Brewster, Mary. (2000). "Stalking by Former Intimates: Verbal Threats and Other Predictors of Physical Violence." Violence and Victims 15 (1): 41-54. 129. Ibid. 130. Fisher, Bonnie, Cullen, Francis, Turner, Michael. (2000). The Sexual Victimization of College Women. Washington, D.C.: National Institute of Justice and Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 131. Ibid. 132. Ibid. 133. Ibid. 134. Bureau of Justice Statistics. (2001). Criminal Victimization in United States, 1999: Statistical Tables. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 135. Brewster, Mary. (2000). "Stalking by Former Intimates: Verbal Threats and Other Predictors of Physical Violence." Violence and Victims 15 (1): 41-54. 136. Silverman, Jay, Raj, Anita, Mucci, Lorelei, Hathaway, Jeanne. (2001). "Dating Violence Against Adolescent Girls and Associated Substance Use, Unhealthy Weight Control, Sexual Risk Behavior, Pregnancy, and Suicidality." JAMA 286 (5): 572-579. 137. McCoy, Virginia, Messiah, Sarah, Yu, Zhinuan. (2001). "Perpetrators, Victims, and Observers of Violence." Journal of Interpersonal Violence 16(9): 890-909. 138. Watson, Jennifer, Cascardi, Michele, O'Leary, Daniel. (2001). "High School Students' Responses to Dating Aggression." Violence and Victims, (16)3: 339-343. 139. Rennison, Callie. (2001). Criminal Victimization 2000 Changes 1999-2000 with Trends 1993-2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 140. Silverman, Jay, Raj, Anita, Mucci, Lorelei, Hathaway, Jeanne. (2001). "Dating Violence Against Adolescent Girls and Associated Substance Use, Unhealthy Weight Control, Sexual Risk Behavior, Pregnancy, and Suicidality." JAMA 286 (5): 572-579. 141. Ibid. 142. Loeber, Rolf, Kalb, Larry, Huizinga, David. (2001). Juvenile Delinquency and Serious Injury Victimization. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Justice Statistics, U.S. Department of Justice. 143. Ibid. 144. Ibid. 145. Fisher, Bonnie, Gunnison, Elaine. (2001). "Violence in the Workplace Gender Similarities and Differences." Journal of Criminal Justice 29: 145-155. 146. Ibid. 147. Ibid. 148. Ibid. 149. Ibid. 150. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2001). National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in 2000. Washington, D.C.: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. 151. Ibid. 152. Unless otherwise noted, these data reflect the status of legislation in states as of the end of their 2000 main legislative sessions. All data are derived from the National Center for Victims of Crime's Legislative Database. ------------------------------- Camera Ready Artwork ------------------------------- The enclosed camera ready artwork incorporates the week's theme, Bringing Honor to Victims, along with other salient issues relevant to crime and victimization. Use these pieces in whatever way you feel would be most productive for your organization, whether on their own or combined with other materials. Many can be used year round. Much of the camera ready artwork has been designed so that it can be localized with local victim service providers' contact information. Just make sure you add the local information, before you send it to a printer. Ask a local printer to donate printing services and/or paper, or provide these services at a reduced cost. Many will for a good cause. All of the camera ready pieces are designed to be printed in black and white. However, if you would like to print in color, the Pantone colors used for the 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week poster and Resource Guide folder are: PMS 186 (red), PMS 2738 (blue), and black. Camera Ready Artwork o NCVRW Logos & Buttons. This assortment of camera ready art can be used on buttons, brochures, programs, invitations, centerpieces, any printed item used during the Week. Also, color can be easily incorporated to add more depth to the designs. o Bookmarks. Each of the provided bookmarks should be printed on two sides. The bookmarks print best on paper that is at least 80-pound stock. o NCVRW Letterhead. Add your organization's contact information and then print out multiple copies. You'll then be ready to use for cover letters, news releases, scripts for public services announcements, and more. You may also wish to incorporate a listing of NCVRW Planning Committee members onto the letterhead prior to reproducing it to demonstrate a coalition effort. o Bumper Stickers o Certificate of Appreciation. Use to honor victim advocates and service providers for their contributions to victim assistance. The certificate can be reproduced on attractive card stock, with the recipient's name written in calligraphy. Spaces are provided for the date of the award and the signature of the director of the organization giving the award. You may also wish to modify the certificate to honor volunteers who assist crime victims and advocates, tying the event into National Volunteer Week, which will also be commemorated during the week of April 21-27, 2002. o National toll-free information and referral telephone numbers. This list can be reprinted as a "stand alone" document or incorporated into other victim service organizations' publications. This list can also be utilized for training and technical assistance, especially for criminal and juvenile justice and allied professionals who are in need of good referral programs for the victims with whom they have contact. o Bringing Honor to Victims poster. This 11" x 17", black and white, poster can be enlarged and/or reduced for use in newsletters, brochures, and even on billboards. Victim service providers can insert their organization's contact and event information prior to duplicating multiple copies of the poster artwork. ------------------------------- "Bringing Honor to Victims" Public Awareness Poster As in years past, we have developed a multicolor, 24" x 28" commemorative poster to help promote your public awareness efforts. This year's striking poster--suitable for framing--uses a flag motif and illustrates graphically many of the ways we honor victims of crime: justice, voice, respect, participation, choices, resources, advocacy, support, information, safety, counseling, restitution. One poster will be mailed separately to everyone who receives the 2002 Resource Guide. A smaller, black and white version, with white space provided for localizing, can be found in the Camera Ready Section of the Resource Guide. One additional free full-size poster is available by contacting the Office for Victims of Crime Resource Center at 800-627-6872. Additional copies may be purchased on-line for $6.50 each at www.ncvc.org, while supplies last. ------------------------------- Samples of the camera-ready artwork are not included in this ASCII plain-text file. To view this document in its entirety, download the Adobe Acrobat graphic file available from this Web site or order a print copy from Office for Victims of Crime Resource Center at 800-627-6872. ------------------------------- Working With the Media ------------------------------- Building Effective Relationships With The Media National Crime Victims' Rights Week is a unique opportunity to work with your local newspapers, and radio and television stations to build public awareness about issues related to crime victims' rights, and to build relationships with the media that can last throughout the year. As with any effective relationship, it's important to establish trust and a good rapport when you interact with the media...something that happens when you become a valued and credible source of information, analysis, and referrals to other sources. Get to know the media representatives who cover issues of importance to you. When you read the daily newspaper or watch the evening news, make a mental note of the reporters who regularly cover criminal justice, legal, social, public policy, and health stories. If there is a local story for which you feel you or your organization can be helpful, telephone the reporter and offer yourself or a colleague as an expert. If you receive media coverage, you can develop your relationship further by writing thank-you notes to the reporter and editor. Always be receptive and attentive to media inquiries by promptly returning phone calls. What's News? The media categorize news into two categories: hard "breaking" news (e.g., new victims' rights legislation is passed, a local crime leaves many in the community victimized) versus softer "feature" pieces (e.g., a crime victim rebuilds her life through advocacy, local victim advocates reach out to domestic violence victims in unique way). The media will typically view National Crime Victims' Rights Week as a feature piece, unless something particularly newsworthy is occurring. Whether hard news or soft, the media love facts. Use the enclosed Statistical Overview for useable, newsworthy data. The Internet also can serve as a valuable resource when searching for current data. Before approaching the media, you must carefully define your message, then tailor your news releases and events to convey that message. Present your information in terms of how it will directly affect the news organization's readers, viewers, listeners. Most reporters, and readers, want to know the human interest angle to any story, announcement, or event. For instance, does it introduce a new or alternative perspective or does it educate, affect, or influence a large number of people? You are in a unique position to put a human face on crime victimization, either through the services you provide or the individuals you serve. Media Lists Your publicity efforts will bear little fruit if you're not targeting the right media contacts. To develop your media list, a variety of sources are available: o the yellow pages for the call letters and addresses of your city's radio and television stations; o the phone book for the addresses of your local newspaper(s); and o your local library for media directories, which, in addition to providing addresses, will list the names of reporters, editors, reader demographics, and the paper's circulation. You may be able to use media lists developed by your local Chamber of Commerce or mayor's and district attorney's offices. Many reporters now prefer to receive news releases electronically, so don't forget to get e-mail addresses. This will save on postage, too! Tools That Grab Media Attention Below we describe a number of tools commonly used to communicate with the media. While you can be creative in how you go about explaining your issue and activities, you must be able to articulate--as briefly and succinctly as possible--the newsworthiness of your information and its relevance to the community. o Media Advisory--A media advisory, sometimes called a media alert, is a one-page notification to the media that briefly explains an event (e.g., news conference, candlelight vigil, rally, open house). Include the "who, what, when, where, and why" of your event. A media advisory should be sent out one to two weeks prior to your event (four weeks in advance for a calendar listing), and be followed by targeted telephone calls to the appropriate reporters. If one of the major news wire services (i.e., Associated Press, Reuters) has a bureau office in your city or town, call their "day book," which lists each day's newsworthy events in your community, to make sure your event is included. The sample media advisory in the Sample Section can help you as you develop your own. o News Release--News releases continue to be the most effective way for an organization to disseminate important information to as wide an audience as possible, and, if well written and newsworthy, will be noticed by the media. News releases can be used to announce the results of a new study, an award, a special event, an outreach campaign, or a new service to be offered by your organization. Write your news releases in the "inverted pyramid" style with the most critical information, "the news," first, followed by supporting details. Your release should tell the reader how and why your news affects a large number of people. Try to use local statistics to call attention to real problems--for instance, your community's number of drunk-driving crashes, number of reported rapes, or the need for services for crime victims. At the end of the release, include a brief paragraph about your organization, its mission, and its relationship to the event--what is typically called "a boilerplate." The news release should be one to two pages in length, and can include quotes from prominent people in your organization. The sample news release in the Resource Guide can help you with localizing your own release, and don't forget to use the enclosed NCVRW letterhead found in the Camera-Ready Section. o Fact Sheets--Reporters love data and anyone who is a reliable source of data. Fact sheets provide additional information to help reporters put your story into a larger context and fill out their reports. You can prepare fact sheets on an array of issues: --national and/or local statistics on crime rates; --an overview of victims' rights legislation--present and pending--in your state; --an overview of the criminal justice system, highlighting the roles of law enforcement, the district attorney's office, victim advocates, judges, the prison system, community corrections, the parole board, and other key players; and --the need for "volunteers for victims," providing details about various volunteer duties including court monitoring, one-on-one advocacy, assisting with support groups, developing new public awareness programs, writing, fundraising and clerical work. ------------------------------- Insider Strategies o At least two months before National Crime Victims' Rights Week or another noteworthy event, write to local print and broadcast managing editors and owners to ask them to support your public service campaign. o Ask media officials to produce a series of programs or articles that provide an overview of victims' experiences. Programs or articles could examine the issues surrounding victims of sexual assault, elder abuse, child abuse (using adult survivors or parents), hate crime, domestic violence, drunk driving, family members of homicide victims, and others. Avoid suggesting programs or articles that may be exploitative, and encourage the media to be sensitive to the victims they interview. o Consider approaching a local public relations or marketing firm for pro bono assistance in creating a public service campaign. o Don't forget to contact your local cable access talk shows, which are always looking for new ideas and frequently highlight the programs of community service agencies. o Encourage your mayor or city council chair to read your National Crime Victims' Rights Week proclamation at a council meeting before National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Local media covers council meetings, and it will help alert them to the upcoming week, as well as provide an additional opportunity for coverage. o Coordinate with victim advocacy organizations in your community to produce a "calendar of events" for National Crime Victims' Rights Week that includes information about special events and activities and how to contact organizers. Provide this calendar to print and broadcast media in your city (especially editors and news directors). See the 2002 Events included on a bookmark in the Camera Ready Section. o After events, send professional quality, 5" x 7" black and white photographs to your local newspaper(s). Many newspapers will print community-event photos, but may not have their staff cover such occasions. Be certain to include a caption that identifies each person in the photo and provides a brief description of the event. Also, provide the name and phone number of a person for the paper to contact for more information. ------------------------------- o Public Service Announcements--Public service announcements (PSAs) are free advertisements for issues and organizations that serve the public interest. At least two months before National Crime Victims' Rights Week, contact the public service department of your local radio and television stations and newspapers to learn about their requirements and deadlines for receiving PSAs. Radio stations usually will air PSAs in lengths of 15 seconds, 30 seconds, or 60 seconds, and frequently require PSA recordings on audiotape or compact disk (CD). Many also accept written text (the station will record the script that you provide). Some radio and television stations will produce a PSA for local nonprofit organizations featuring the station's on-air talent. This approach virtually guarantees good pick up by the station and saves you production and distribution costs. Newspapers also provide limited public service space, but usually require the advertiser to produce and provide camera-ready art. When you mail either the finished PSAs or the scripts, include a cover letter that encourages the radio, televison station, or newspaper to support your public awareness campaign. Sample radio PSAs are included in the Sample Section. The editorial pages of your local newspaper provide yet another opportunity to advance your messages on a given issue. Op-eds and letters to the editor are used frequently by savvy communicators: o Op-Eds--Essays that run "opposite the editorial page" are frequently written by people not on a newspaper's editorial staff. Op-eds usually run from 500 to 700 words, but contact the editorial page department to ask about exact requirements. The piece must be timely and provide a different and/or unique perspective on an issue currently important to the public's health and welfare. Consider "co-authoring" a column with other victims' organizations or a recognized local expert in your community. A collaborative effort will increase the impact. The sample op-ed in the Sample Section will help you craft your own piece. o Letter to the Editor--Different from an "op-ed," letters to the editor generally react to specific news stories or editorials that have previously appeared in a newspaper. For most newspapers, the letters-to-the-editor section is the first and most frequently read in the publication. Again, contact the newspaper for guidelines on length and submission requirements. Also, many newspaper editors are receptive to authoring their own editorials commemorating National Crime Victims' Rights Week, so don't overlook this possibility. ------------------------------- Landmarks in Victims' Rights & Services ------------------------------- The whole history of the progress of human liberty shows that all concessions yet made to her August claims have been born of earnest struggle. ... If there is no struggle, there is no progress. --Frederick Douglass 1965 o The first crime victim compensation program is established in California. o By 1970, five additional compensation programs are established--New York, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Maryland and the Virgin Islands. 1972 o The first three victim assistance programs are established: Aid for Victims of Crime in St. Louis, Missouri; Bay Area Women Against Rape in San Francisco, California; and the Rape Crisis Center in Washington, D.C. 1974 o The Federal Law Enforcement Assistance Administration (LEAA) funds the first victim/witness programs in the Brooklyn and Milwaukee District Attorneys' offices, plus seven others through a grant to the National District Attorneys Association, to create model programs of assistance for victims, encourage victim cooperation, and improve prosecution. o The first law enforcement-based victim assistance programs are established in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Indianapolis, Indiana. o Congress passes the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act which establishes the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect (NCCAN). The new Center creates an information clearinghouse, provides technical assistance and model programs. 1975 o The first "Victims' Rights Week" is organized by the Philadelphia District Attorney. o Citizen activists unite to expand victim services and increase recognition of victims' rights through the formation of the National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA). 1976 o Nebraska becomes the first state to abolish the marital rape exemption. o The first national conference on battered women is sponsored by the Milwaukee Task Force on Women in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. o In Fresno County, California, Chief Probation Officer James Rowland creates the first victim impact statement to provide the judiciary with an objective inventory of victim injuries and losses prior to sentencing. o Women's Advocates in St. Paul, Minnesota, starts the first hotline for battered women. o Women's Advocates and Haven House in Pasadena, California, establish the first shelters for battered women. 1977 o The National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards is established by the existing 22 compensation programs to promote the creation of a nationwide network of compensation programs. o Oregon becomes the first state to enact mandatory arrest in domestic violence cases. 1978 o The National Coalition Against Sexual Assault is formed to combat sexual violence and promote services for rape victims. o The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence is organized as a voice for the battered women's movement on a national level, and initiates the introduction of the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act in the U.S. Congress. o Parents of Murdered Children (POMC), a self-help support group, is founded in Cincinnati, Ohio. o Minnesota becomes the first state to allow probable cause (warrantless) arrest in cases of domestic assault, regardless of whether a protection order had been issued. 1979 o Frank G. Carrington, considered by many to be "the father of the victims' rights movement," founds the Crime Victims' Legal Advocacy Institute, Inc., to promote the rights of crime victims in the civil and criminal justice systems. The nonprofit organization was renamed VALOR, the Victims' Assistance Legal Organization, Inc., in 1981. o The Office on Domestic Violence is established in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, but is later closed in 1981. o Congress fails to enact the Federal Law Enforcement Assistance Administration (LEAA), and federal funding for victims' programs is phased out. Many grassroots and "system-based" programs close. 1980 o Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is founded after the death of 13-year-old Cari Lightner, who was killed by a repeat offender drunk driver. The first two MADD chapters are created in Sacramento, California, and Annapolis, Maryland. o The U.S. Congress passes the Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act of 1980. o Wisconsin passes the first "Crime Victims' Bill of Rights." o The First National Day of Unity in October is established by NCADV to mourn battered women who have died, celebrate women who have survived the violence, and honor all who have worked to defeat domestic violence. This Day becomes Domestic Violence Awareness Week and, in 1987, expands to a month of awareness activities each October. o The first Victim Impact Panel is sponsored by Remove Intoxicated Drivers (RID) in Oswego County, New York. 1981 o Ronald Reagan becomes the first President to proclaim "Crime Victims' Rights Week" in April. o The disappearance and murder of missing child Adam Walsh prompt a national campaign to raise public awareness about child abduction and enact laws to better protect children. 1982 o In a Rose Garden ceremony, President Reagan appoints the Task Force on Victims of Crime, which holds public hearings in six cities across the nation to create a greatly needed national focus on the needs of crime victims. The Task Force Final Report offers 68 recommendations that become the framework for the advancement of new programs and policies. Its final recommendation, to amend the Sixth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution to guarantee that ". . . the victim, in every criminal prosecution, shall have the right to be present and to be heard at all critical stages of judicial proceedings . . .," becomes a vital source of new energy pushing toward the successful efforts to secure state constitutional amendments through the 1980s and beyond. o The Federal Victim and Witness Protection Act of 1982 brings "fair treatment standards" to victims and witnesses in the federal criminal justice system. o California voters overwhelmingly pass Proposition 8, which guarantees restitution and other statutory reforms to crime victims. o The passage of the Missing Children's Act of 1982 helps parents guarantee that identifying information about their missing child is promptly entered into the FBI National Crime Information Center computer system. o The first Victim Impact Panel sponsored by MADD, which educates drunk drivers about the devastating impact of their criminal acts, is organized in Rutland, Massachusetts. 1983 o The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) is created by the U.S. Department of Justice within the Office of Justice Programs to implement recommendations from the President's Task Force on Victims of Crime. OVC establishes a national resource center, trains professionals, and develops model legislation to protect victims' rights. o The U.S. Attorney General establishes a Task Force on Family Violence, which holds six public hearings across the United States. o The U.S. Attorney General issues guidelines for federal victim and witness assistance. o In April, President Reagan honors crime victims in a White House Rose Garden ceremony. o President Reagan proclaims the first National Missing Children's Day in observance of the disappearance of missing child Etan Patz. o The International Association of Chiefs of Police Board of Governors adopts a Crime Victims' Bill of Rights and establishes a victims' rights committee to bring about renewed emphasis on the needs of crime victims by law enforcement officials nationwide. 1984 o The passage of the Victims Of Crime Act (VOCA) establishes the Crime Victims Fund, made up of federal criminal fines, penalties and bond forfeitures, to support state victim compensation and local victim service programs. o President Reagan signs the Justice Assistance Act, which establishes a financial assistance program for state and local government and funds 200 new victim service programs. o The National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 is enacted, providing strong incentives to states without "21" laws to raise the minimum age for drinking, saving thousands of young lives in years to come. o The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children is created as the national resource agency for missing children. Passage of the Missing Children's Assistance Act provides a Congressional mandate for the Center. o The Spiritual Dimension in Victim Services is founded to involve the faith community in violence prevention and victim assistance. o The U.S. Congress passes the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, which earmarks federal funding for programs serving victims of domestic violence. o Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS) is organized at the first police survivors' seminar held in Washington, D.C., by 110 relatives of officers killed in the line of duty. o A victim/witness notification system is established within the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Office for Victims of Crime hosts the first national symposium on child molestation. o Victim/witness coordinator positions are established in the U.S. Attorneys' offices within the U.S. Department of Justice. o California State University-Fresno initiates the first Victim Services Certificate Program offered for academic credit by a university. o Remove Intoxicated Drivers (RID) calls for a comprehensive Sane National Alcohol Policy (SNAP) to curb aggressive promotions aimed at youth. 1985 o The Crime Victims Fund deposits total $68 million. o The National Center for Victims of Crime (formerly the National Victim Center) is founded to promote the rights and needs of crime victims, and to educate Americans about the devastating effect of crime on our society. o The United Nations General Assembly passes the International Declaration on the Rights of Victims of Crime and the Abuse of Power. o President Reagan announces a Child Safety Partnership with 26 private-sector members to promote child safety, to clarify information about child victimization, and to increase public awareness of child abuse. o The U.S. Surgeon General issues a report identifying domestic violence as a major public health problem. 1986 o The Office for Victims of Crime awards the first grants to support state victim compensation and assistance programs. o Two years after its passage, the Victims of Crime Act is amended by the Children's Justice Act to provide funds specifically for the investigation and prosecution of child abuse. o Rhode Island passes a constitutional amendment granting victims the right to restitution, to submit victim impact statements, and to be treated with dignity and respect. o Victim compensation programs have been established in 35 states. o MADD's "Red Ribbon Campaign" enlists motorists to display a red ribbon on their automobiles, pledging to drive safe and sober during the holidays. This national public awareness effort has since become an annual campaign. 1987 o Security on Campus, Inc. (SOC) is established by Howard and Connie Clery, following the tragic robbery, rape and murder of their daughter Jeanne at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. SOC raises national awareness about the hidden epidemic of violence on our nation's campuses. o The American Correctional Association establishes a Task Force on Victims of Crime. o The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence establishes the first national toll-free domestic violence hotline. o Victim advocates in Florida, frustrated by five years of inaction on a proposed constitutional amendment by their legislature, begin a petition drive. Thousands of citizens sign petitions supporting constitutional protection for victims' rights. The Florida legislature reconsiders, and the constitutional amendment appears on the 1988 ballot. 1988 o OVC establishes funds for the Victim Assistance in Indian Country (VAIC) grant program to provide direct services to Native Americans by establishing "on-reservation" victim assistance programs in Indian Country. o The National Aging Resource Center on Elder Abuse (NARCEA) is established in a cooperative agreement among the American Public Welfare Association, the National Association of State Units on Aging, and the University of Delaware. Renamed the National Center on Elder Abuse, it continues to provide information and statistics. o State v. Ciskie is the first case to allow the use of expert testimony to explain the behavior and mental state of an adult rape victim. The testimony is used to show why a victim of repeated physical and sexual assaults by her intimate partner would not immediately call the police or take action. The jury convicts the defendant on four counts of rape. o The Federal Drunk Driving Prevention Act is passed, and states raise the minimum drinking age to 21. o Constitutional amendments are introduced in Arizona, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, South Carolina and Washington. Florida's amendment is placed on the November ballot, where it passes with 90 percent of the vote. Michigan's constitutional amendment passes with over 80 percent of the vote. o VOCA amendments legislatively establish the Office for Victims of Crime, elevate the position of Director by making Senate confirmation necessary for appointment, and induce state compensation programs to cover victims of domestic violence, homicide and drunk driving. In addition, VOCA amendments added a new "priority" category of funding victim assistance programs at the behest of MADD and POMC for "previously underserved victims of crime." o OVC also establishes a Federal Emergency Fund for victims in the federal criminal justice system. 1989 o The legislatures in Texas and Washington pass victims' rights constitutional amendments, which are both ratified by voters the same year. 1990 o The Crime Victims Fund deposits total over $146 million. o Congress passes the Hate Crime Statistics Act requiring the U.S. Attorney General to collect data of incidence of certain crimes motivated by prejudice based on race, religion, sexual orientation or ethnicity. o The Student Right-to-Know and Campus Security Act, requiring institutions of higher education to disclose murder, rape, robbery and other crimes on campus, is signed into law by President Bush. o The Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990, which features reforms to make the federal criminal justice system less traumatic for child victims and witnesses, is passed by Congress. o The Victims' Rights and Restitution Act of 1990 incorporates a Bill of Rights for federal crime victims and codifies services that should be available to victims of crime. o Congress passes legislation proposed by MADD to prevent drunk drivers and other offenders from filing bankruptcy to avoid paying criminal restitution or civil fines. o The Arizona petition drive to place the victims' rights constitutional amendment on the ballot succeeds, and it is ratified by voters. o The first National Incidence Study on Missing, Abducted, Runaway and Throwaway Children in America shows that over one million children fall victim to abduction annually. o The National Child Search Assistance Act requires law enforcement to enter reports of missing children and unidentified persons in the FBI National Crime Information Center computer system. 1991 o U.S. Representative Ilena Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) files the first Congressional Joint Resolution to place victims' rights in the U.S. Constitution. o California State University-Fresno approves the first bachelors degree program in victimology in the nation. o The results of the first national public opinion poll to examine citizens' attitudes about violence and victimization, America Speaks Out, are released by the National Center for Victims of Crime (formerly the National Victim Center) during National Crime Victims' Rights Week. o The 1991 Attorney General Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance implement new protections of the Crime Control Act of 1990, integrating the requirements of the Federal Crime Victims' Bill of Rights, the Victims of Child Abuse Act and the Victim and Witness Protection Act of 1982. o The American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) establishes a Victim Issues Committee to examine victims' issues and concerns related to community corrections. o The International Parental Child Kidnapping Act makes the act of unlawfully removing a child outside the United States a federal felony. o The New Jersey legislature passes a victims' rights constitutional amendment, which is ratified by voters in November. o Colorado legislators introduce a constitutional amendment on the first day of National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Fifteen days later, the bill is unanimously passed by both Houses to be placed on the ballot in 1992. o In an 8 to 0 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Simon & Schuster v. New York Crime Victims Board that New York's notoriety-for-profit statute was overly broad and, in the final analysis, unconstitutional. Notoriety-for-profit statutes had been passed by many states at this time to prevent convicted criminals from profiting from the proceeds of depictions of their crime in the media or publications. States must now review their existing statutes to come into compliance with the Supreme Court's decision. 1992 o Rape in America: A Report to the Nation, published during National Crime Victims' Rights Week by the National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center and the National Center for Victims of Crime, clarifies the scope and devastating effect of rape in this nation, including the fact that 683,000 women are raped annually in the United States. o The Association of Paroling Authorities, International establishes a Victim Issues Committee to examine victims' needs, rights and services in parole processes. o Congress reauthorizes the Higher Education Bill which includes the Campus Sexual Assault Victims' Bill of Rights. o The Battered Women's Testimony Act, which urges states to accept expert testimony in criminal cases involving battered women, is passed by Congress and signed into law by President Bush. o In a unanimous decision, the U.S. Supreme Court--in R.A.V. vs. City of St. Paul--struck down a local hate crimes ordinance in Minnesota, which prohibited the display of a symbol which one knew or has reason to know "arouses anger, alarm or resentment in others on the basis of race, color, creed, religion or gender," which was found to violate the first amendment. o Five states--Colorado, Kansas, Illinois, Missouri and New Mexico-- ratify constitutional amendments for victims' rights. o Twenty-eight states pass anti-stalking legislation. o Massachusetts passes a landmark bill creating a statewide computerized domestic violence registry and requires judges to check the registry when handling such cases. 1993 o Wisconsin ratifies its constitutional amendment for victims' rights, bringing the total number of states with these amendments to 14. o President Clinton signs the "Brady Bill" requiring a waiting period for the purchase of handguns. o Congress passes the Child Sexual Abuse Registry Act, establishing a national repository for information on child sex offenders. o Twenty-two states pass stalking statutes, bringing the total number of states with anti-stalking laws to 50, plus the District of Columbia. 1994 o The American Correctional Association Victims Committee publishes the landmark Report and Recommendations on Victims of Juvenile Crime, which offers guidelines for improving victims' rights and services when the offender is a juvenile. o Six additional states pass constitutional amendments for victims' rights--the largest number ever in a single year--bringing the total number of states with amendments to 20. States with new amendments include Alabama, Alaska, Idaho, Maryland, Ohio, and Utah. o President Clinton signs a comprehensive package of federal victims' rights legislation as part of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act. The Act includes: --Violence Against Women Act, which authorizes more than $1 billion in funding for programs to combat violence against women. --Enhanced VOCA funding provisions. --Establishment of a National Child Sex Offender Registry. --Enhanced sentences for drunk drivers with child passengers. o Kentucky becomes the first state to institute automated telephone voice notification to crime victims of their offender's status and release date. o OVC establishes the Community Crisis Response (CCR) program to improve services to victims of violent crimes in communities that have experienced crimes resulting in multiple victimizations. 1995 o The Crime Victims Fund deposits total $233 million. o Legislatures in three states--Indiana, Nebraska, and North Carolina--pass constitutional amendments that will be placed on the ballot in 1996. o The National Victims' Constitutional Amendment Network proposes the first draft of language for a federal constitutional amendment for victims' rights. o The National Victim Assistance Academy in Washington, D.C., graduates its first class. Supported by the Office for Victims of Crime, the university-based Academy provides an academically credited 45-hour curriculum on victimology, victims' rights and myriad other topics. 1996 o Federal Victims' Rights Constitutional Amendments are introduced in both houses of Congress with bi-partisan support. o Both presidential candidates and the Attorney General endorse the concept of a Victims' Rights Constitutional Amendment. o The Crime Victims Fund reaches an historic high with deposits over $525 million. o Eight states ratify the passage of constitutional amendments for victims' rights--raising the total number of state constitutional amendments to 29 nationwide. o The Community Notification Act, known as "Megan's Law," provides for notifying communities of the location of convicted sex offenders by amendment to the national Child Sexual Abuse Registry legislation. o President Clinton signs the Anti-terrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, providing one million dollars in funding to strengthen anti-terrorism efforts, making restitution mandatory in violent crime cases, and expanding the compensation and assistance services for victims of terrorism both at home and abroad, including victims in the military. o The Mandatory Victims' Restitution Act, enacted as Title II of the Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act, allows federal courts to award "public harm" restitution directly to state VOCA victim assistance programs. As a result of the new sentencing guidelines, judges can require federal offenders in certain drug offense cases to pay "community restitution." o The National Domestic Violence Hotline is established to provide crisis intervention information and referrals to victims of domestic violence and their friends and family. o The Church Arson Prevention Act is signed into law in July, in response to increasing numbers of acts of arson against religious institutions around the country. o The Drug-Induced Rape Prevention Act is enacted to address the emerging issue of the use of sedating drugs by rapists on victims. o The Office for Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), within the U.S. Department of Justice, issues the Juvenile Justice Action Plan that includes recommendations for victims' rights and services for victims of juvenile offenders within the juvenile justice system. o President Clinton directs the Attorney General to hold the federal system to a higher standard of services for crime victims. 1997 o In January, a federal victims' rights constitutional amendment is re-introduced in the opening days of the 105th Congress with strong bipartisan support. o In March, Congress passes the Victims Rights Clarification Act of 1997 to clarify existing federal law allowing victims to attend a trial and to appear as "impact witnesses" during the sentencing phase of both capital and non-capital cases. Supported by the Justice Department, President Clinton immediately signs the Act, allowing the victims and survivors of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City to both observe the trial that is scheduled to begin within days and to provide input later at sentencing. o In April, the Senate Judiciary Committee conducts hearings on the proposed federal constitutional amendment. While not endorsing specific language, Attorney General Janet Reno testifies in support of federal constitutional rights for crime victims. o In June, President Clinton reaffirms his support of federal constitutional rights for crime victims in a Rose Garden ceremony attended by members of Congress, criminal justice officials, and local, state, and national victims' rights organizations. Also that month, the Judiciary Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives conducts its first hearing on the proposed amendment. o In July, the Crime Victims Assistance Act is introduced into the U.S. Senate, offering full-scale reform of federal rules and federal law to establish stronger rights and protections for victims of federal crime. This legislation further proposes to assist victims of state crime through the infusion of additional resources to make the criminal justice system more supportive of crime victims. o To fully recognize the sovereignty of Indian Nations, OVC for the first time provides victim assistance grants in Indian Country directly to the tribes. o A federal anti-stalking law is enacted by Congress. o The Federal Crime Victims Fund reaches its second highest year in fund collections with deposits totaling $363 million. o OVC representatives join the United States Delegation to the United Nations Commission on Criminal Justice and Crime Prevention. OVC plays a leadership role in the development of an International Victim Assistance Training Manual to implement the U.N. Declaration of Basic Principles of Justice for Victims of Crime and Abuse of Power. o The National Center for Victims of Crime, using its extensive legislative database, creates the Legislative Sourcebook, a comprehensive compendium of victims' rights laws in all states. Developed with support from OVC, the Sourcebook becomes the definitive digest of state legislation on crime victims' rights laws for the nation. o OVC releases New Directions from the Field: Victims Rights and Services for the 21st Century, which assesses the nation's progress in meeting the recommendations set forth in the Final Report of the 1982 President's Task Force on Victims of Crime, and issues over 250 new recommendations from the field for the next millennium. 1998 o Senate Joint Resolution 44, a new version of the federal Victims' Rights Amendment, is introduced in the Senate by Senators Jon Kyl (R-AZ) and Dianne Feinstein (D-CA). The Senate Judiciary Committee subsequently approves SJR 44 by an 11-6 vote. No further action is taken on SJR 44 during the 105th Congress. o Four new states pass state victims' rights constitutional amendments: Louisiana by a voter margin of approval of 69 percent; Mississippi by 93 percent; Montana by 71 percent; and Tennessee by 89 percent. The Supreme Court of Oregon overturns the Oregon state victims' rights amendment, originally passed in 1996, citing structural deficiencies. o The Higher Education Amendments of 1998, is passed. Part E of this legislation, "Grants to Combat Violent Crimes Against Women on Campus," is authorized through the year 2003, and appropriates a total of $10 million in grant funding to the Violence Against Women Grants Office for fiscal year 1999. Another primary aim of this legislation is to reduce binge drinking and illegal alcohol consumption on college campuses. o The Child Protection and Sexual Predator Punishment Act of 1998 is enacted, providing for numerous sentencing enhancements and other initiatives addressing sex crimes against children, including crimes facilitated by the use of interstate facilities and the Internet. o The Crime Victims with Disabilities Act of 1998 is passed, representing the first effort to systematically gather information on the extent of the problem of victimization of individuals with disabilities. This legislation directs the Attorney General to conduct a study on crimes against individuals with developmental disabilities within 18 months. In addition, the Bureau of Justice Statistics must include statistics on the nature of crimes against individuals with developmental disabilities and victim characteristics in its annual National Crime Victimization Survey by 2000. o The Identity Theft and Deterrence Act of 1998 outlawing identify theft is signed into law. This landmark federal legislation directs the U.S. Sentencing Commission to consider various factors in determining penalties including the number of victims and the value of the loss to any individual victim. The Act further authorizes the Federal Trade Commission to log and acknowledge reports of identity theft, provide information to victims, and refer complaints to appropriate consumer reporting and law enforcement agencies. 1999 o On January 19, 1999, the Federal Victims' Rights Constitutional Amendment (Senate Joint Resolution 3, identical to SJR 44) is introduced before the 106th Congress. o The Victim Restitution Enforcement Act of 1999, sponsored by Senator Abraham Spencer (R-MI) and introduced in the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 19, 1999, is officially titled a Bill to Control Crime by Requiring Mandatory Victim Restitution. Components of the proposed bill include establishment of procedures regarding the court's ascertaining of the victim's losses; requirement that restitution to victims be ordered in the full amount of their losses without consideration of the defendant's economic circumstances; and authorization of the court, upon application of the United States, to enter a restraining order or injunction, require the execution of a satisfactory performance bond, or take any other action necessary to preserve the availability of property or assets necessary to satisfy the criminal restitution order. o Senator Joseph Biden (D-DE) introduces the Violence Against Women Act II, a bill that extends and strengthens the original 1994 Violence Against Women Act. Key provisions of this bill would: (1) strengthen enforcement of "stay away" orders across state lines; (2) boost spending for more women's shelters; (3) end insurance discrimination against battered women; (4) extend the Family and Medical Leave Act to cover court appearances by battered women; and (5) target the "date rape drug," Rohypnol, with maximum federal penalties. o The National Crime Victim Bar Association is formed by the National Center for Victims of Crime to promote civil justice for victims of crime. 2000 o The National Crime Victimization Survey victimization rates for 1999 are released, showing the lowest recorded crime rates since the survey's creation in 1973. o In April 2000, the Federal Victims' Rights Constitutional Amendment (SJR 3) is addressed for the first time by the full U.S. Senate. On April 27, 2000, following two-and-a-half days of debate, SJR 3 is withdrawn for further consideration by its co-sponsors, Senators Kyl (R-AZ) and Feinstein (D-CA), when it becomes apparent that the measure would not receive a two-thirds majority vote for approval. o Congress passes a new national drunk driving limit of 0.08 blood alcohol concentration (BAC) with the strong support of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and other victim advocacy organizations, as well as leading highway safety, health, medical, law enforcement, and insurance groups. The new law, which passed with strong bipartisan support, requires the states to pass 0.08 "per se intoxication" laws or lose a portion of their annual federal highway funding. o The Violence Against Women Act of 2000 is signed into law by President Clinton, extending VAWA through 2005, and authorizing funding at $3.3 billion over the five-year period. Among its numerous provisions, VAWA II: authorizes $80 million a year for rape prevention and education grants; expands federal stalking statute to include stalking on the Internet; authorizes $875 million over five years for battered women's shelters; authorizes $25 million in 2001 for transitional housing programs; and provides funding totaling $25 million to address violence against older women and women with disabilities. o The Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 is enacted, to prevent and prosecute the trafficking of persons and provide protection and assistance for the victims of trafficking. 2001 o The National Crime Victimization Survey results for 2000 are released, showing that victimization rates continue to drop, reaching a new low of 25.9 million victims. o Regulations for victims of trafficking are adopted, providing a wholesale change in the way the federal government responded to a class of crime victims, affecting policies and procedures at the State Department, the Department of Health and Human Services, and several Department of Justice agencies, including the FBI, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, and the U.S. attorneys offices. o Congress responds to the terrorism acts of September 11 with a raft of legislation, providing funding for victim assistance, tax relief for victims, and other accommodations and protections for victims. A new federal compensation program specifically for the victims of September 11 was created as part of the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act. The program included many types of damages normally available only through civil actions, such as payment for pain and suffering, lifetime lost earnings, and loss of enjoyment of life. Claimants must waive their right to bring a civil action for damages suffered as a result of the terrorist acts. o As part of a package of anti-terrorism legislation called the USA PATRIOT ACT of 2001, changes are made to the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA),including increasing the percentage of state compensation payments reimbursable by the federal government, and allowing OVC to fund compliance and evaluation projects. Compiled by the National Center for Victims of Crime with the support and assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime, Victims' Assistance Legal Organization, Inc.(VALOR), and the many national, state and local victim service providers who offered documentation of their key victims' rights landmark activities. ------------------------------- Special Event Ideas ------------------------------- Introduction In addition to securing official proclamations and scheduling speeches and presentations, you also can organize special events during National Crime Victims' Rights Week and throughout the year to educate the public about the rights and needs of crime victims. To help with the planning process, we have assembled a list of possible special event activities that you may hold within your own community. Many of the suggested items come straight from victim advocates across the country. An essential element of any outreach campaign is to involve other groups and individuals. Recruit external partners to have an even greater impact and a broader reach. And, remember that encouraging the participation of youth today can have an impact for years to come. A number of the suggested activities below are specifically targeted to young people. Candlelight Vigil Candlelight vigils are one of the most popular and inspirational ways to honor victims of crime. Host your vigil at an easily accessible site to get the most exposure and participation (e.g., front entrance to the state capitol building, town hall, city park). Many communities choose to hold these ceremonies outside of courthouses. Add something unique and special to your vigil. During National Crime Victims' Rights Week, the Delaware County, Pennsylvania chapter of Parents of Murdered Children released two dozen doves at a candlelight vigil held in front of the courthouse. Ribbon Campaigns Ribbon campaigns are an easy way to enable a large number of people to show their support for victims' rights. Pass out ribbons at schools, shopping malls, courthouses, and your office. Red, white and blue ribbons could be used to reinforce this year's colors. Art Exhibits Host an art exhibit to raise public awareness about victims' rights. Invite victims of crime, survivors, or advocates to submit pieces that reflect the week's theme, "Bringing Honor to Victims," in the context of their personal experiences. In Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the YWCA hosted an art exhibit for Victims' Rights Week. The exhibit was entitled "Take a Walk in My Shoes," and it honored victims of crime and violence. The exhibit featured artwork by survivors. Commemorative Quilt Create a quilt to honor crime victims. Invite staff, volunteers, students, community members, crime victims, and their families to decorate a patch. You may be able to get local arts and crafts store to donate supplies. Find a visible spot for your exhibit, such as the lobby of your local courthouse or police station. Commemorative quilts provide the opportunity to portray the experiences of hundreds of people in one creative display. Victim Services Awards Ceremony Take advantage of National Crime Victims' Rights Week to honor those who have dedicated their lives to serving victims of crime. Hold a lunch or a dinner ceremony and present awards. Local communities have recognized the police officer of the year, victim advocate of the year, criminal justice professional of the year, and/or volunteer of the year. Resource and Education Fairs Educate the public about victims' rights by organizing a resource fair. Choose an easily accessible public location, such as a shopping mall or university student union. Last year, local victim advocates in Albuquerque, New Mexico, celebrated Crime Victims' Rights Week by holding a resource fair at a shopping mall. Participating organizations included the Sexual Assault Recovery Services, Rape Crisis Center, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). Dedications Dedicate a local bench, monument, or building to victims of crime. A Florida chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) dedicated a park bench and tree to victims of drunk driving. In Riverside, Ohio, a Victims' Memorial Wishing Well was built in a local park and dedicated to victims of crime. In Ware County, Georgia, families of homicide victims dedicated a white marble bench and stepping stones outside the courthouse to crime victims. Clothesline Project Clothesline projects are popular throughout the country. They consist of different color tee shirts, each color representing a different crime. Victims decorate these shirts in order to express how they have been affected by crime. The shirts are then publicly displayed on a clothesline. If there is a clothesline project in your area, offer to display it for Crime Victims' Rights Week. If there is no clothesline project in your area, start one. Victims' Rights Walkathon Sponsor a victims' rights walkathon to raise money for local victim service agencies. Encourage participants to register and find sponsors. Invite local activists, elected officials, or musicians to speak or perform during the event. In Richmond, Virginia, the third annual victims' rights walkathon was held this past year and featured the state's attorney general. Voter Registration and Education Will there be issues of importance to victims of crime in an upcoming election? Conduct a voter registration drive and education campaign to familiarize voters with the issues and to encourage them to go to the polls. Invite the participation of the local chapter of the League of Women Voters. Victims' Rights Rally Empower crime victims and their supporters by holding a march or rally. Hold a rally to lobby for a specific piece of legislation, or one that focuses on a particular crime, such as Take Back the Night. Take Back the Night rallies are held to empower victims of sexual assault. Memorial Gardens A memorial garden is a living memorial to crime victims. Establish or advocate for a memorial garden to murder victims in your community. In Stark County, Ohio, victim advocates handed out seeds at a ceremony during National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Advocates encouraged families and officials to plant flowers in memory of victims who had lost their lives. In Modesto, California, families, friends, and supporters of victims gathered to dedicate Stanilus County's Garden of Healing and Restoration to victims of crime. The garden, still under development, features, among other things, a coastal redwood tree dedicated to homicide victims. When completed, the garden will also feature a waterfall and monument. Tree of Life Display a "tree of life" in your office. Construct the trunk, branches and leaves of the tree from construction paper, and place it on a wall in a visible location, such as your lobby. Allow victims and families to place different colored ribbons on the tree, representing different crimes. Alternatively, place ribbons on a living tree. Survivor Poetry Reading Organize a poetry reading for advocates, families and survivors of crime. Encourage participants to read their own poetry, or a poem that they find especially meaningful. To create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, find a local cafe or library at which you can hold this event. Educational Coasters Create and distribute coasters with information about safety or crime victims' rights. In Riverside, California, victim advocates distributed coasters with information on date rape drugs to local bars. Fundraising Many businesses are willing to contribute a portion of their profits to local non-profit organizations that serve the public interest. Work with a local business, such as a book store, pizza parlor, or coffee shop, to hold a "fundraising night" during which the business will contribute a portion of their profits from that night to your organization. Encourage the community to patronize your sponsor's business on fundraising night by distributing flyers and contacting your local newspapers. Especially for Kids Poster or Poetry Contest Encourage the creativity of kids while supporting victims of crime. Work with local schools to organize a poster or poetry contest for victims' rights week. In Arapahoe County, Colorado, winning posters were placed in a 2002 calendar and distributed for free to the community. Program for School or Youth Organizations Host an educational program for a school or youth organization. Perform skits, show videos, and hold discussions with classes. Discuss victims' rights and the impact of crime. Think about bringing counselors. For National Crime Victims' Rights Week last year, the California Youth Authority put on several programs for kids under its jurisdiction. They held a moment of silence, invited crime victims to be guest speakers, sponsored a poster and essay contest, held memorial services, and ran a fundraiser to support victim advocacy organizations. Pledges Against Violence Have teenagers sign pledges against violence. In Hillsboro, Oregon, the Washington County Juvenile Justice Department participated in the National "Hands Are Not for Hurting" Campaign. Local teenagers traced their hands and added those tracings to a tree displayed in the Justice Services Building. Adding their hands to the tree symbolized their commitment to end violence. Volunteer Drive Work with schools to encourage children and teenagers to become active in their community. Hold presentations for middle school and high school classes. Tell kids about the different services provided by organizations in the community. Distribute educational materials. Encourage teenagers to volunteer their time with a local victim organization. Movie Hour Go to high schools, youth organizations, and universities. Preview clips of movies which feature crime victims. Discuss how the victims are treated and portrayed in the movies, and how the movies compare to real life. At the University of California, Davis, the Campus Violence Prevention Program sponsored a movie night during Sexual Assault Awareness Month in order to open a dialogue on campus. ------------------------------- Samples, Additional Resources ------------------------------- Samples We have provided a variety of sample pieces that can serve as a starting point as you prepare your own materials for National Crime Victims' Rights Week. While we have incorporated a national perspective, it's important for you to add the local perspective (i.e., how what you are doing has an impact within your local community). All of these items can be prepared on the enclosed NCVRW letterhead (see the Camera Ready Section of the Resource Guide) or on your own organizational letterhead. Permission is granted to use the provided quotes as written only if attributed to John Gillis, director of the Office for Victims of Crime, U.S. Department of Justice, and Susan Herman, executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime. o Sample Media Advisory o Sample News Release o Sample Public Service Announcements o Sample Op-Ed o Sample Letter Requesting a Proclamation or Resolution o Sample Proclamation o Sample Resolution Additional Resources o Accessing Information: OVC Resource Center and Other Services--a useful overview of the wide range of information provided by the Office for Victims of Crime, as well as an exhaustive list of victim-related web sites. o Resource Guide Co-Sponsors--a comprehensive listing of the national organizations that serve as co-sponsors of the 2002 Resource Guide, including web sites and e-mail addresses. ------------------------------- Resource Guide Evaluation chart is not included in this ASCII plain-text file. To view this document in its entirety, download the Adobe Acrobat graphic file available from this Web site or order a print copy from Office for Victims of Crime Resource Center at 800-627-6872. An HTML version of this document is also available at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/ncvrw/2002/welcome.html. ------------------------------- Sample Media Advisory ------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Date] CONTACT: Your name Phone number E-mail address [YOUR ORGANIZATION] ANNOUNCES [EVENT] TO COMMEMORATE NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS' RIGHTS WEEK 2002 WHO: Your organization Local official/spokesperson/community guests participating WHAT: To hold an [event] honoring victims of crime, their families, and those who support them. (Examples: candlelight vigil, awards ceremony, commemorative walk) WHEN: Date, Time WHERE: Location (include exact street address and phone number, if directions are needed) FACTS: o Statistical information about crime in your community o Background information about National Crime Victims' Rights Week o Your organization's mission statement and program overview ### A media advisory should be sent one to two weeks prior to your event (four weeks in advance for a calendar listing), and be followed by targeted telephone calls to the appropriate reporters. The media advisory should be no longer than one page in length and should have contact information prominently displayed at the top of the page. ------------------------------- Sample News Release ------------------------------- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [Date] CONTACT: Your name Phone number E-mail address "Bringing Honor To Victims" Americans Commemorate 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week [City/State]--During the week of April 21-27, 2002, victims of crime, victim advocates, criminal and juvenile justice officials, allied professionals, and community volunteers across the United States will observe the 22nd annual National Crime Victims' Rights Week. In the aftermath of September 11, this year's theme, "Bringing Honor to Victims," reflects the country's heightened awareness of the harsh and tragic impact of crime on its victims, while underscoring the critical importance of helping all victims of crime rebuild their lives. "The tragedy of September 11 brings special meaning and purpose to this year's observance," said John Gillis, director of the Office for Victims of Crime, U.S. Department of Justice. "This week is about bringing honor to all crime victims by promoting a greater understanding of crime victims' needs, by educating victims about their rights and the resources available to them, and by applauding the countless volunteers and professionals who have dedicated their lives to seeing that those harmed by crime don't fall through the cracks." For nearly three decades, the victims' rights community has successfully brought crime victims' concerns and issues to the forefront of America's public policy agenda. Today, every state and the federal government provides for the participation of victims in the criminal justice system, helping to make individuals and communities safer and making our justice system stronger. Crime victims' laws have been passed at the federal, state, and local levels giving victims legal rights, such as the right to be notified throughout the criminal justice process; the right to be consulted before a plea agreement is entered; the right to be present during court proceedings; the right to speak at sentencing; and the right to restitution from a convicted offender. --more-- National Crime Victims' Rights Week [Date] Page Two Victim advocates also point to other progress. Thirty-two states [including yours, if applicable] have provided the highest protection for the rights of crime victims by enshrining them in their state constitutions. Thousands of local service organizations and offices within criminal justice agencies that provide direct support to victims of crime exist today. And more and more victims of crime are asserting their right to seek redress through civil justice. Susan Herman, executive director of the National Center for Victims of Crime, encourages people across America to join in saluting the significant achievements of America's crime victims, service providers, and justice professionals in this especially difficult time for Americans. "National Crime Victims' Rights Week gives us the opportunity to support crime victims and thank those who serve them," said Herman. "Let's build on our past successes and renew our commitment to making comprehensive victims' rights and services a reality in every community. The 26 million people in this country who are victimized by crime each year deserve no less." Throughout the country, communities are observing National Crime Victims' Rights Week by holding candlelight vigils, awards ceremonies, art exhibits, open houses, commemorative walks, and much more. In [your city/county/state], numerous activities have been planned to honor victims of crime and those who serve them during National Crime Victims' Rights Week. Included are: [cite examples of special events]. Additional information about National Crime Victims' Rights Week can be found at www.ncvc.org and www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc. ### Type your news release double-spaced on the sample letterhead included in this Resource Guide. If your news release is more than one page, type "- more -" at the bottom of the first page. Add the title and date of the news release, plus "Page Two", in the top left corner of the second page. At the end of the release, type ### to let the reader know that there is no more to come. Permission is granted to use the provided quotes attributed to John Gillis and Susan Herman. ------------------------------- Sample Public Service Announcements ------------------------------- 15-Second PSA: Every crime has a victim, and every victim needs our help. This is National Crime Victims' Rights Week. If you or someone you know has been affected by crime, we can help. Please call [name of your organization] at [your phone number]. That's [your phone number]. Start rebuilding your life today. 15-Second PSA: In the 15 seconds it takes to listen to this announcement, thousands of lives will be forever changed by crime. Many may spend the next 15 years just trying to rebuild their lives. They need your help. April 21-27 is National Crime Victims' Rights Week. To find out how to help victims of crime in your community, call [name of your organization] at [your phone number]. That's [your phone number]. 30-Second PSA: Are you or someone you know a victim of crime? Are you tired of being told to get over it? Not sure of your options, or don't know what your rights are? Crime can have a lasting physical, emotional, or financial impact on its victims. This is National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 21-27, and [name of your organization] wants you to know that you don't need to struggle alone. There is help. Call them at [your phone number] to get more information about the impact of crime, to learn about your rights, to access victim compensation, and more. Call [your phone number]. 30-Second PSA: A crime may last only moments, but its impact can be felt for a lifetime. This is National Crime Victims' Rights Week, and this year's theme is "Bringing Honor to Victims." This is a time to reflect on the lives of the 26 million Americans who are affected by crime each year and those special individuals in our community who work hard every day fighting to secure and strengthen victims' rights. To get help or find out what you can do to help in your community, call [name of your organization] at [your phone number]. That's [your phone number]. 60-Second PSA: During the next minute, more than 55 people in this country will be harmed by crime. That's almost one person, every second, of every day. Certainly, most of us have been personally affected by crime, or someone close to us has been. Crime affects all ages, races and economic and cultural backgrounds. Some victims of crime move on with their lives fairly easily, but many suffer continuing trauma without the services and support they need, struggling with the psychological, physical, and financial consequences of the crime. This week is National Crime Victims' Rights Week, a time to honor and support victims of crime. It is also a time to recognize those who work hard every day to help crime victims rebuild their lives. If you or someone you know has been a victim of crime, it is time to get help. No one can go through it alone. To find out more about how you can get help or help others in your community, call [name of your organization] at [your phone number]. ------------------------------- Sample Op-Ed ------------------------------- Bringing Honor To Victims: What September 11 Teaches Us About Helping Those Harmed By Crime September 11 has heightened this country's awareness of the harsh and tragic impact of crime on its victims. How, in a single moment, one's life can be turned upside down and completely altered through an act of human cruelty. Although nearly 26 million crimes occur annually in the United States, most of us never stop to think about the people harmed by each of those crimes--the victims. Nor do we consider what these victims might need to rebuild their lives, to recover from what may have been a profoundly traumatic experience. And, what about the ripple effect of crime? Each family member, friend, and loved one of a victim is, to some extent, touched by the event. They, too, must awaken to find a different world from the one they knew before the tragedy. Their new reality is something they must come to terms with and the difference that will always be there. They, too, must rebuild their lives. The horror of September 11 gives us an opportunity to reconsider our response to victims of crime generally. We have witnessed unparalleled generosity, from individual acts of kindness to historic levels of charitable giving. Neighbors helping neighbors. Communities reaching out to victims and survivors. Federal legislation, enacted at breakneck speed, compensating victims for their losses. Such a societal response to crime victims is unprecedented. As we move beyond and learn from the horrific events of the past year, this week--National Crime Victims' Rights Week--seems a particularly poignant opportunity to commemorate the progress that has been made to secure rights and services for crime victims. More than 30 years ago, pioneering victim advocates fought for something previously inconceivable--the provision of basic rights within the criminal and juvenile justice systems for innocent victims of crime. Today, every state and the federal government provides for at least some level of participation by victims in the criminal justice system, helping to make individuals and communities safer and making our justice system stronger. Laws have been passed at the federal, state, and local levels giving victims certain legal rights, such as the right to be notified throughout the criminal justice process; the right be consulted before a plea agreement is entered; the right to be present during court proceedings; the right to speak at sentencing; and the right to restitution from a convicted offender. [Describe the victims' rights your state/community, or other signs of progress.] Other progress has been made. Thirty-two states [including yours, if applicable] have provided even more protection for these rights by enshrining them in their state constitutions. Thousands of local service organizations and offices within criminal justice agencies exist today to provide direct support to victims of crime. And more and more victims of crime are asserting their right to seek redress through civil justice. But, this week is also a time to recommit ourselves to making sure all crime victims have the help they need, that none fall through the cracks in systems established to protect them. A time to bring honor to victims. How do we do that? o When we help them access the resources they need--from financial resources such as crime victim compensation or restitution, to emotional support and counseling--we bring honor to victims. o When we help them to plan for their own safety, we bring honor to victims. o When we give them the information they need to make their own choices, we bring honor to victims. o When we make sure they have the opportunity to participate fully in the criminal justice process, we bring honor to victims. o When we validate their experience, when we listen to them describe how their lives have been changed by an event out of their control, and how they have learned to cope, we bring honor to victims. o And, we bring honor to victims when we ask them what they need, and we commit ourselves to doing everything we can to help. Victims' voices speak to us plaintively through the tragedy and pain. We only need to listen. And, in the process, we learn about life and facing hardship. These lessons can teach us all compassion and perspective. April 21-27 is an opportunity to listen to the voices of victims of crime, and to those who help them. Throughout the week, our community will sponsor candlelight vigils, commemorative walks, public awareness campaigns [describe your own activities]. With National Crime Victims' Rights Week as a springboard, every person in [your community] can join in our crusade for victims' rights, victim services, and victim justice. Our individual and community safety depends on such involvement, and our journey towards honoring victims, and helping them heal, cannot be completed without the involvement and commitment of everyone. You can join our many initiatives that bring honor to victims and, in turn, make a positive difference in someone's life and most likely your own. These are the lessons of September 11. Every crime has a victim. And, every victim needs our help. Consider this sample op-ed a starting point in developing your own. Make it relevant to your own community by adding state or local crime statistics and/or by discussing an issue of particular concern within your community. The length of this document is approximately 810 words. Call your local newspaper to find out its editorial guidelines, such as length and deadlines. Remember to include the author's name, title, and organization name. Sharing additional information about your organization and its programs also can be helpful. ------------------------------- Sample Letter Requesting a Proclamation or Resolution ------------------------------- Honorable [Name] [Official Title] Street Address or P.O. Box City/State/Zip Code Dear [Name]: The 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week is April 21-27, 2002. This annual commemorative week provides an excellent opportunity for our [City/County/State] to demonstrate its support for crime victims and those who serve them by educating our citizens about violence, victimization, and the importance of their support for victims' rights and services. [Your organization] would be honored if you would sponsor an official [proclamation/resolution] to recognize April 21-27, 2002, as [City/County/State] Crime Victims' Rights Week. Your [proclamation/resolution] would lead the community in our effort to bring honor to crime victims, and to extend official recognition to the important work of victim service providers. I have enclosed a sample [proclamation/resolution] which may help your office compose the appropriate [proclamation/resolution] for our [City/County/State]. Insert the following paragraph if you are sponsoring a public awareness event:. [List of organizations co-sponsoring event] are sponsoring [describe event] on [date] at [time] at [location]. We hope you will attend this special event to present your [proclamation/resolution]. If you are unable to attend personally, we ask that you delegate an official representative to read the [proclamation/resolution] during our event. If you or your staff have any questions concerning our request, the sample [proclamation/resolution], or 2002 National Crime Victims' Rights Week, please call me at [phone number]. I will follow-up with your office on this request in the next few days. As always, we appreciate your past support of [your organization's] efforts to support crime victims. Thank you for your consideration of this special request. Sincerely, Enclosure: [proclamation/resolution] ------------------------------- Sample Proclamation ------------------------------- As our [City/State] continues to make strides in reducing the crime rate, we must remember that there are still far too many victims of crime. Those who have suffered a violation of their person, property, or trust deserve to be treated with dignity and respect by our criminal and juvenile justice systems and by society at-large. We recognize that our response to crime victims plays an important role in their efforts to rebuild their lives following the offense. Let all of us-- policy makers, those in the criminal justice system, counselors, clergy members, and members of the general public--do what we can to Bring Honor to Victims, responding to crime victims compassionately and respectfully. While our [City/State] has adopted laws to protect the rights of victims of crime and provide them certain essential services, all of us must do what we can to adhere not only to the letter of victims' rights laws but the spirit of those laws as well. Let us acknowledge that, just as government must be open to its citizens, our system of justice must be open to victims of crime. In the year 2002 and beyond, let us Bring Honor to Victims and create a world where respect and dignity will be basic rights for everyone victimized by crime, and where those responsible for implementing the rights of victims are accountable for their actions. Through public and private efforts, our community has already taken important steps to ensure that our treatment of victims helps them to begin the healing. Let us gratefully acknowledge all those who work, often as volunteers, on behalf of crime victims. Let us recognize those many law enforcement officers, prosecutors, victim service providers, corrections officers, parole and probation officers, counselors, physicians, health care professionals, and the many others whose dedication and service to crime victims helps to lessen trauma and assists in personal recoveries. Let us in particular express our appreciation for those victims and survivors of crime who have turned personal tragedy into a motivating force not only to improve the rights and treatment of other victims of crime but, also, to build a better, more just community. I hereby proclaim the week of April 21-27, 2002, Crime Victims' Rights Week, and urge the citizens of this [City/State] to use the week to reaffirm our commitment to see that crime victims receive our respect, understanding, and help this week and throughout the year. Note: A proclamation is appropriate for your Mayor or Governor. ------------------------------- Sample Resolution ------------------------------- Whereas, one violent crime is committed in America every 5 seconds and one property crime every 1.6 seconds; and Whereas, 25.9 million Americans are victims of crime each year, and of those, 6.3 million are victims of violent crime; and Whereas, despite the recent reduction in the rate of crime, far too many persons still suffer the impact of crime; and Whereas, crime victims play an indispensable role in bringing offenders to justice; and Whereas, victims of crime deserve respect, resources, restoration, and justice; and Whereas, as we carry crime victims' rights into 2002 and beyond, we must Bring Honor to Victims, striving to create a world where the legal rights of victims are honored and government agencies are accountable for their treatment of victims; and Whereas, despite significant progress in providing rights and services to crime victims over the past two decades, large segments of our population, including crime victims who are elderly, disabled, or living in rural areas, are still under-served; and Whereas, as a nation devoted to liberty and justice for all, America must increase its efforts to protect, restore, and expand crime victims' rights and services; and Whereas, [Your organization] is joining forces with victim service programs, criminal justice officials, and concerned citizens throughout [your City/County/State] and America to observe National Crime Victims' Rights Week; Therefore, be it Resolved, that [elected official or government entity] designates the week of April 21-27, 2002, as [City/County/State} Crime Victims' Rights Week; and be it further Resolved, that [elected official or government entity] reaffirms a commitment to respect and enforce victims' rights and address their needs during 2002 [City/County/State] Crime Victims' Rights Week and throughout the year; and be it further Resolved, that this official proclamation be presented to [your organization] on [date]. Note: A resolution is appropriate for legislative bodies such as your state legislature or city council. ------------------------------- Accessing Information: OVC Resource Center and Other Services ------------------------------- VICTIMS' RESOURCES IN THE INFORMATION AGE The advent of information technologies, especially the enormous growth of the Internet, has changed the way in which information about crime victims' issues is being made available to researchers, advocates, and practitioners. Today, victims and victim service providers can instantly access an enormous amount of information specific to their needs, including the latest research findings, statistical reports, program descriptions, grant and funding sources, evaluations on victim issues, promising practices, and referrals to professional organizations in the victim-serving community. For victims and victim service providers, information access begins with the Office for Victims of Crime Resource Center (OVCRC), a component of the National Criminal Justice Reference Service (NCJRS). Established by the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), U.S. Department of Justice, OVCRC is your primary source for crime victim information. OVCRC is accessible 24 hours a day through the NCJRS web site and Fax-on-Demand where menus provide information and publications from all Office for Justice Program (OJP) agencies--Office for Victims of Crime, National Institute of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Bureau of Justice Statistics, and Bureau of Justice Assistance--as well as from the Office of National Drug Control Policy. In addition to the Web site, victim assistance professionals can benefit by taking advantage of various online services, such as the Justice Information (JUSTINFO) Electronic Newsletter, e-mail inquiries, the Conference Calender Database, and the On-line Ordering Store. NCJRS also has highly trained information specialists to personally answer questions and direct individuals to the best resources available. Furthermore, NCJRS offers allied professionals an opportunity to be placed on its mailing list to receive up-to-date information via the NCJRS Catalog. Together with online services, Fax-on-Demand, and personal assistance, NCJRS and OVCRC can help victim advocates better serve victims of crime. ACCESSING OVCRC AND NCJRS--To contact OVCRC, call 800-627-6872. To contact NCJRS, call 800-851-3420, or access on-line in the following ways: NCJRS Web Site. The NCJRS web site provides criminal and juvenile justice information and links to other criminal justice resources from around the world. The NCJRS web site provides information about NCJRS and OJP agencies, grant-funding opportunities, full-text publications, key-word searching of NCJRS publications, access to the NCJRS Abstracts Database, the current NCJRS Catalog, and a topical index. The address for the NCJRS web site is www.ncjrs.gov. NCJRS On-line Ordering System. Publications, videos, and other materials that pertain to criminal justice, juvenile justice, and drug control policy can now be ordered at any time. The on-line store is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and can be accessed from the NCJRS web site. Justice Information (JUSTINFO) Electronic Newsletter. This free, on-line newsletter is distributed to your Internet e-mail address on the 1st and 15th of each month. JUSTINFO contains information concerning a wide variety of subjects, including news from all Office of Justice Programs (OJP) agencies and the Office of National Drug Control Policy; criminal justice resources on the Internet; criminal justice funding and program information; and announcements about new NCJRS products and services. To subscribe, send an e-mail to with the message subscribe justinfo [your name]. E-Mail: Information and Help. Users requiring technical assistance or having specific questions on criminal and juvenile justice topics can send an e-mail to . To place an order for publications, users may send an e-mail to . National Center for Victims of Crime Website (www.ncvc.org) This unique resource for crime victims and service providers contains more than 70 information bulletins on a wide range of crime issues. From the website, victims can be directly connected to e-mail support at gethelp@ncvc.org and a comprehensive referral service database of 7,400 local service agencies in the United States. Service providers can find information on best practices, legislative developments, and resources to use with crime victims. The National Center's website also includes an on-line stalking resource center, a virtual library, a press room, and an on-line ordering system for publications and other materials. The site also links to the National Crime Victim Bar Association website, as well as the National Center's unique September 11th site. (This site is not associated with OVC or NCJRS). OTHER NCJRS ELECTRONIC INFORMATION SERVICES Fax-on-demand. NCJRS has established a "fax-on-demand" service that allows the user to obtain copies of selected NCJRS documents directly through their own fax machine, using a toll-free telephone number. To access the fax-on-demand menu, simply call 1-800-851-3420, and follow the prompts. CD-ROM and On-line Access to the Abstracts Database. Users with CD-ROM capability can also obtain the NCJRS Abstracts Database on CD-ROM. This disc features citations and abstracts of more than 90,000 criminal justice books, research reports, journal articles, government documents, program descriptions, program evaluations, and training manuals contained in the NCJRS Research and Information Center library collection. The disc also contains search software that supports retrieval, using any combination of words to search individual fields or all fields globally. The disc can be searched using "free text" methods, or in combination with the National Criminal Justice Reference Services. Thesaurus. In addition, the NCJRS Abstracts Database is available on the NCJRS web site. 2002 Resource Guide Accessing Information VICTIM-RELATED INTERNET SITES This list does not constitute an endorsement of opinions, resources, or statements on any of the above web sites by the Office for Victims of Crime, U.S. Department of Justice, or the National Center for Victims of Crime. ---------------------- Federal Agencies/Resources ---------------------- Bureau of Justice Assistance http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/ Bureau of Justice Statistics http://bjs.ojp.usdoj.gov Center for Substance Abuse Prevention http://www.samhsa.gov/centers/csap/csap.html Center for Substance Abuse Treatment http://www.samhsa.gov/csat Centers for Disease Control http://www.cdc.gov Community-Oriented Police Office (COPS) http://www.justice.gov/cops/ FBI Uniform Crime Reports-Statistical Data http://fisher.lib.virginia.edu/crime/ Federal Judicial Center http://www.fjc.gov/ GovBot Database of Government Web sites http://ciir2.cs.umass.edu/ciirdemo/Govbot/ Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention http://www.edc.org/hec/ National Archive of Criminal Justice Data http://www.icpsr.umich.edu/NACJD/home.html National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information http://www.health.org/ National Domestic Violence Hotline http://www.ndvh.org National Highway Traffic Safety Administration http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ NCJRS Justice Information Center http://www.ncjrs.gov/ National Institute of Corrections http://www.nicic.org/ National Institute of Justice http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/ National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/ National Institute on Drug Abuse http://www.drugabuse.gov/ National Maternal and Child Health Clearinghouse http://www.ask.hrsa.gov/MCH.cfm?content=MCH Nonprofit Gateway http://www.nonprofit.gov/ Office of Justice Programs http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency and Prevention http://www.ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/ Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/ Office of National Drug Control Policy Information Clearinghouse http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov THOMAS: Federal Legislation http://thomas.loc.gov U.S. Department of Education Campus Security http://www.ed.gov/offices/OPE/PPI/security.html U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Grantsnet http://www.hhs.gov/grantsnet/ U.S. Department of Justice http://www.justice.gov/ U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center on PTSD http://www.ncptsd.org U.S. Parole Commission http://www.justice.gov/uspc/parole.htm U.S. Supreme Court http://www.supremecourtus.gov Violence Against Women Office http://www.ojp.gov/vawo/ ---------------------- National Victim-related Organizations ---------------------- ABA Center on Children and the Law http://www.abanet.org/child/ American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children http://www.apsac.org/ Anti-Defamation League http://www.adl.org/hate-patrol/main.html Child Abuse Prevention Association http://www.chilabuseprevention.org Child Abuse Prevention Network http://www.child-abuse.com Childhelp USA http://www.childhelpusa.org Child Quest International http://www.sjuw.org/youth/child.quest.html Child Welfare League of America http://www.cwla.org Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS) http://www.nationalcops.org Family Violence Prevention Fund http://www.fvpf.org/ Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community http://www.dvinstitute.org Mothers Against Drunk Driving http://www.madd.org National Center for Missing & Exploited Children http://www.missingkids.org National Center for Victims of Crime http://www.ncvc.org National Center on Elder Abuse http://www.elderabusecenter.org/ National Children's Alliance http://www.nncac.org National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect Information http://www.calib.com/nccanch National Coalition Against Domestic Violence http://www.ncadv.org National Coalition of Homicide Survivors http://www.mivictims.org/nchs National Commission Against Drunk Driving http://www.ncadd.com National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association http://www.nationalcasa.org/ National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center http://www.musc.edu/cvc/ National Fraud Information Center http://www.fraud.org National Insurance Crime Bureau http://www.nicb.org National Organization for Victim Assistance http://www.try-nova.org National Sexual Violence Research Center http://www.nsvrc.org National Victim Assistance Academy (OVC) http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/ovc/assist/vaa.htm National Victim Assistance Academy (VALOR) http://www.nvaa.org National Victims Constitutional Amendment Network http://www.nvcan.org National Violence Against Women Prevention Research Center http://www.vawprevention.org Neighbors Who Care http://www.neighborswhocare.org Parents of Murdered Children (POMC) http://www.pomc.com Safe Campuses Now http://www.uga.edu/%7Esafe-campus/ Security on Campus http://www.campussafety.org/ Victims' Assistance Legal Organization (VALOR) http://www.valor-national.org ---------------------- National Criminal and Juvenile Justice- and Public Policy-related Associations ---------------------- American Correctional Association http://www.corrections.com/aca American Correctional Health Services Association http://www.corrections.com/achsa/ American Jail Association http://www.corrections.com/aja American Probation and Parole Association http://www.appa-net.org American Prosecutors Research Institute http://www.ndaa-apri.org Association of State Correctional Administrators http://www.asca.net Balanced and Restorative Justice Project http://ssw.che.umn.edu/rjp/Resources/ProgSum.htm Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice http://www.cjcj.org Center for Restorative Justice & Peacemaking http://ssw.che.umn.edu/rjp/default.html Center for Sex Offender Management http://www.csom.org Community Anti-drug Coalitions of America http://www.cadca.org Community Justice Exchange http://www.communityjustice.org Community Policing Consortium http://www.communitypolicing.org Conflict Resolution Education Network http://www.crenet.org/ Correctional Education Association http://www.ceanational.org Council of State Governments http://www.csg.org Institute for Law and Justice http://www.ilj.org International Association of Campus Law Enforcement Administrators http://www.iaclea.org/ International Association of Chiefs of Police http://www.theiacp.org Join Together: Take Action Against Substance Abuse http://www.jointogether.org/sa Justice Policy Institute http://www.cjcj.org/jpi National Association for Community Mediation http://www.nafcm.org/ National Association of Attorneys General http://www.naag.org National Association of Counties (NACo) http://www.naco.org National Association of Drug Court Professionals http://www.nadcp.org National Association of Police Organizations http://www.napo.org National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse http://www.casacolumbia.org The National Center for State Courts http://www.ncsconline.org National Conference of State Legislatures http://www.ncsl.org The National Consortium for Justice Information and Statistics http://www.search.org National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges http://www.ncjfcj.unr.edu/ National Criminal Justice Association http://www.ncja.org National District Attorneys Association http://www.ndaa.org National Governors Association http://www.nga.org/ National Indian Justice Center http://www.nijc.indian.com/ The National Judicial College http://www.judges.org The National Juvenile Detention Association http://www.corrections.com/njda/top.html National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center http://www.nlectc.org The National League of Cities http://www.nlc.org National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives http://www.noblenatl.org National Sheriffs' Association http://www.sheriffs.org/ The Network of Violence Prevention Practitioners http://www2.edc.org/nvpp Office of Correctional Education http://www.ed.gov/offices/OVAE/OCE/ Police Executive Research Forum http://www.policeforum.org Police Foundation http://www.policefoundation.org Restorative Justice Project http://www.fresno.edu/pacs/rjp/ Southern Poverty Law Center http://splcenter.org State Justice Institute http://www.statejustice.org Victim Offender Mediation Association http://www.voma.org/ ---------------------- State-level VOCA Victim Assistance Agencies & Crime Victim Compensation Programs ---------------------- Alabama http://www.agencies.state.al.us/crimevictims/ Alaska http://www.dps.state.ak.us/vccb/htm/ Arizona http://www.dps.state.az.us/azvictims/compensa/welcome.htm Arkansas http://www.ag.state.ar.us/ California http://www.boc.cahwnet.gov/victims.htm Colorado http://cdpsweb.state.co.us/ovp/ovp.htm Connecticut http://www.jud.state.ct.us/ Delaware http://www.state.de.us/cjc/index.html Florida http://legal.firn.edu/victims/index.html Georgia http://www.ganet.org/cjcc Hawaii http://www.cpja.ag.state.hi.us Idaho http://www2.state.id.us/iic/index.htm Illinois http://www.ag.state.il.us/ Indiana http://www.state.in.us/cji/ Iowa http://www.state.ia.us/government/ag/cva.html Kansas http://www.ink.org/public/ksag/contents/crime/cvcbrochure.htm Louisiana http://www.cole.state.la.us/cvr.htm Maine http://www.state.me.us/ag/victim.htm Maryland http://www.dpscs.state.md.us/cicb Mississippi http://www.dfa.state.ms.us/ Missouri http://www.dolir.state.mo.us/wc/dolir6f.htm Montana http://www.doj.state.mt.us/whoweare.htm Nebraska http://www.nol.org/home/crimecom/ New Hampshire http://www.state.nh.us/nhdoj/index.html New Jersey http://www.state.nj.us/victims/ New Mexico http://www.state.nm.us/cvrc/ New York http://www.cvb.state.ny.us/ North Carolina http://www.nccrimecontrol.org/vjs/ Ohio http://www.ag.state.oh.us/crimevic/crimevictimservices.htm Oklahoma http://www.state.ok.us/ Oregon http://www.doj.state.or.us/CrimeV/welcome1.htm Pennsylvania http://www.pccd.state.pa.us/ Rhode Island http://www.state.ri.us/treas/vcfund.htm South Carolina http://www.state.sc.us/governor/ South Dakota http://www.state.sd.us/social/cvc/ Tennessee http://www.treasury.state.tn.us/injury.htm Texas http://www.oag.state.tx.us/victims/victims.htm Utah http://www.crimevictim.state.ut.us/ Vermont http://www.ccvs.state.vt.us/ Virginia http://www.dcjs.state.va.us/victims/ Washington http://www.lni.wa.gov/insurance/cvc.htm West Virginia http://www.legis.state.wv.us/joint/court/victims/main.html Wisconsin http://www.doj.state.wi.us/cvs/ Wyoming http://vssi.state.wy.us ---------------------- Federal and State Corrections ---------------------- Federal Bureau of Prisons http://www.bop.gov Alaska Department of Correction http://www.correct.state.ak.us/ Alabama Department of Corrections http://www.agencies.state.al.us/doc/ Arizona Department of Correction http://www.adc.state.az.us:81/ Arkansas Department of Correction http://www.state.ar.us/doc/ California Department of Correction http://www.cdc.state.ca.us/ Colorado Department of Correction http://www.doc.state.co.us/index.html Connecticut Department of Correction http://www.state.ct.us/doc/ Delaware Department of Corrections http://www.state.de.us/correct Florida Department of Correction http://www.dc.state.fl.us/ Georgia Department of Correction http://www.dcor.state.ga.us/ Hawaii Department of Public Safety http://www.hawaii.gov/icsd/psd/psd.html Idaho Department of Correction http://www.corr.state.id.us/ Illinois Department of Correction http://www.idoc.state.il.us/ Indiana Department of Correction http://www.ai.org/indcorrection/ Iowa Department of Correction http://www.doc.state.ia.us/ Kansas Department of Correction http://www.ink.org/public/kdoc/ Kentucky Justice Cabinet http://www.jus.state.ky.us/ Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement & Criminal Justice http://www.cole.state.la.us/ Maine Department of Correction http://janus.state.me.us/corrections/homepage.htm Maryland Department of Correction http://www.dpscs.state.md.us/doc/ Massachusetts Department of Correction http://www.magnet.state.ma.us/doc Michigan Department of Correction http://www.state.mi.us/mdoc/ Minnesota Department of Corrections http://www.corr.state.mn.us/ Mississippi Department of Corrections http://www.mdoc.state.ms.us/ Missouri Department of Corrections http://www.corrections.state.mo.us/ Montana Department of Corrections http://www.state.mt.us/cor Nebraska Department of Correctional Services http://www.corrections.state.ne.us/ Nevada Department of Corrections http://www.state.nv.us/ New Hampshire Department of Corrections http://www.state.nh.us/doc/ New Jersey State Department of Correction http://www.state.nj.us/corrections New Mexico Department of Correction http://www.state.nm.us/corrections/ New York State Department of Correctional Services http://www.docs.state.ny.us/ New York City Department of Correction http://www.ci.nyc.ny.us/html/doc/ North Carolina Department of Correction http://www.doc.state.nc.us/ Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction http://www.drc.state.oh.us/ Oregon Department of Correction http://www.doc.state.or.us/ Oklahoma Department of Correction http://www.doc.state.ok.us/ Pennsylvania Department of Correction http://www.cor.state.pa.us/ Rhode Island Department of Correction http://www.doc.state.ri.us/ South Carolina Department of Correction http://www.state.sc.us/scdc/ South Dakota Department of Correction http://www.state.sd.us/corrections/corrections.html Tennessee Department of Correction http://www.state.tn.us/correction Texas Department of Correction http://www.tdcj.state.tx.us/ Utah Department of Correction http://www.cr.ex.state.ut.us/home.htm Vermont Criminal Justice Services http://170.222.24.9/cjs/index.html Virginia Department of Corrections http://www.vadoc.state.va.us/ Washington State Department of Corrections http://www.wa.gov/doc/ West Virginia Division Of Corrections http://www.state.wv.us/wvdoc/default.htm Wisconsin Department of Correction http://www.wi-doc.com/ Wyoming Department of Correction http://doc.state.wy.us/corrections.html ---------------------- State Coalitions and Related Resources ---------------------- Connecticut Sexual Assault Crisis Services http://www.connsacs.org/ Iowa Organization for Victim Assistance http://showcase.netins.net/web/i_weaver/iova/ Michigan Crime Victim Rights http://www.gop.senate.state.mi.us/cvr/ Missouri Victim Assistance Network http://mova.missouri.org/ Safe Horizon (New York City region) http://www.safehorizon.org/ South Carolina Victim Assistance Network http://www.scvan.org/ Texans for Equal Justice http://www.tej.lawandorder.com/index.htm ---------------------- Other Victim Resources ---------------------- Action Without Borders - Nonprofit Directory http://www.idealist.org Alliance for Justice http://www.afj.org American Humane Association http://www.americanhumane.org APA - American Psychological Association http://www.apa.org/ Cecil Greek's Criminal Justice Page http://www.fsu.edu/~crimdo/feds.html Children's Institute International http://www.childrensinstitute.org/ Communities Against Violence Network (CAVNET) http://www.asksam.com/cavnet The Compassionate Friends http://www.compassionatefriends.com/ Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence http://www.caepv.org/ Elder Abuse Prevention http://www.oaktrees.org/elder International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies http://www.istss.org/ International Victimology Website http://www.victimology.nl/ Jewish Women International http://www.jewishwomen.org/ Justice for All http://www2.jfa.net/jfa/ Michigan State University Victims and the Media Program http://www.victims.jrn.msu.edu National Coalition of Homicide Survivors http://www.mivictims.org/nchs/ National Mental Health Association http://www.nmha.org National Organization on Male Sexual Victimization http://www.nomsv.org National Parent Information Network http://www.npin.org Out of the Blue (Domestic Violence in the Jewish Community) http://hometown.aol.com/blue10197/index.html Post Trauma Resources http://www.posttrauma.com Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network http://www.rainn.org/ Rape Recovery Help and Information http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/2402/ Safe Campuses Now http://www.uga.edu/%7Esafe-campus/ Search Yahoo for Victims' Rights http://www.yahoo.com/Society_and_Culture/Crime/Victims_Rights/ Sexual Assault Information Page http://www.cs.utk.edu/%7Ebartley/saInfoPage.html The Stalking Victim's Sanctuary http://www.stalkingvictims.com/ Stephanie Roper Committee and Foundation http://www.stephanieroper.org Survivors of Stalking http://www.soshelp.org Victim Assistance Online http://www.vaonline.org Violence Policy Center http://www.vpc.org Workplace Violence Research Institute http://www.noworkviolence.com/ ---------------------- Legal Research/Resources ---------------------- Findlaw http://www.findlaw.com/ State Law and Legislative Information http://www.washlaw.edu/ U.S. Supreme Court Decisions http://supct.law.cornell.edu/supct/ ---------------------- Media ---------------------- American Journalism Review Newslink http://www.newslink.org/ Criminal Justice Journalists http://www.reporters.net/cjj News Index http://www.newsindex.com Newspapers Online http://www.newspapers.com ------------------------------- Resource Guide Co-Sponsors ------------------------------- American Correctional Association, Victims Committee 4380 Forbes Boulevard Lanham, MD 20706-4332 Contact: Trudy Gregorie and Chiquita Sipos Phone: 301-918-1800 800 ACA-JOIN Fax: 301-918-1900 Web site: www.corrections.com/aca American Probation and Parole Association c/o The Council of State Governments P.O. Box 11910 Lexington, KY 40578-1910 Contact: Tracy Godwin Mullins Phone: 859-244-8203 Fax: 859-244-8001 Web site: www.appa-net.org E-mail: tgodwin@csg.org California State University-Fresno, Center for Victim Studies 2225 East San Ramon Avenue Fresno, CA 93740-0104 Contact: Steven D. Walker, Ph.D., Director Phone: 559-278-4021 Fax: 559-278-7265 Web site: www.csufresno.edu E-mail: steven_walker@csufresno.edu Childhelp USA/Virginia 311 Park Avenue Falls Church, VA 22046 Contact: Iris Beckwith, Director Abuse Prevention Programs Phone:703-241-9100 Fax:703-241-9105 Web site: www.childhelpva.org E-mail: ibeckwith@chidhelpva.org National Headquarters Childhelp USA 15757 North 78th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260 Contact: Chuck Bolte, Executive Director Phone: 480-922-8212 800-4-A-CHILD TDD800-2-A-CHILD Fax:480-922-7061 Web site: www.childhelpusa.org Concerns of Police Survivors P.O. Box 3199 - S. Highway 5 Camdenton, MO 65020 Contact: Suzanne F. Sawyer, Executive Director Phone:573-346-4911 Fax:573-346-1414 Web site: www.nationalcops.org E-mail: cops@nationalcops.org Crime Victim Study Center University of New Haven 300 Orange Avenue West Haven, CT 06516 Contact: Dr. Mario T. Gabovry Phone: 203 932 7041 Fax: 201-931-6030 Web site: www.newhaven.edu E-mail: mgaboury@newhaven.edu Family Violence Prevention Fund 383 Rhode Island Street, Suite 304 San Francisco, CA 94103-5133 Contact: Michelle Kipper Phone: 415-252-8900 Fax: 415-252-8991 Web site: www.fvpf.org E-mail: mfund@fvpf.org Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) 511 E. John Carpenter Freeway, Suite 700 Irving, TX 75062-8187 Contact: John Evans, Asst Director Advocacy Training and Services Phone: 800-438-MADD Fax: 972-869-2206 Web site: www.madd.org E-mail: evans@madd.org National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards P.O. Box 16003 Alexandria, VA 22302 Contact: Dan Eddy Phone: 703-313-9500 Web site: www.nacvcb.org E-mail: nacvcb@aol.com National Center on Elder Abuse 1201 15th St, NW Suite 350 Washington, DC 20005 Contact: Sara Aravanis, Director Phone: 202-898-2586 Fax: 202-898-2583 Website: www.elderabusecenter.org E-mail: ncea@nasua.org National Center for Missing & Exploited Children Charles B. Wang International Children's Building 699 Prince Street Alexandria, VA 22314- 3175 Contact: Sherry Bailey Phone: 703-274-3900 800-826-7653 Fax: 703-274-2220 Web site: www.missingkids.com National Center for Victims of Crime 2000 M Street, NW Suite 480 Washington, DC 20036 Contact: Susan Herman, Executive Director Phone: 202-467-8700 800-FYI-CALL TTY: 800-211-7996 Web site: www.ncvc.org E-mail: mail@ncvc.org National Children's Alliance 1612 K Street, NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 2006 Contact: Nancy Chandler, Executive Director Phone: 202-452-6001 Fax: 202-452-6002 Web site: www.nca-online.org E-mail: info@nca-online.org National Coalition Against Domestic Violence P.O. Box 18749/1201 Colfax Ave, #385 Denver, CO 80209 Contact: Rita Smith, Executive Director Phone: 303-839-1852 Fax: 303-831-9251 Web site: www.ncadv.org E-mail: efrantela@ncadv.org National Crime Prevention Council 1000 Connecticut Ave, NW, 13th Floor Washington, DC 20036 Contact: Megan Dominish Phone: 202-466-6272 Fax: 202-296-1356 Web site: www.ncpc.org National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center Medical University of South Carolina 165 Cannon Street Charleston, SC 29425-0742 Contact: Dean G. Kilpatrick, Ph.D., Director Phone: 843-792-2945 Fax: 843-792-3388 Web site: www.musc.edu/cvc/ E-mail: kilpatdg@musc.edu National District Attorneys Association 99 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 510 Alexandria, VA 22314-1588 Contact: Newman Flanagan, Director Phone: 843-792-2942 Fax: 843-792-3388 Web site: www.ndaa.org E-mail: connie_hepler@ndaa-apri.org National Organization of Parents of Murdered Children 100 East Eighth Street, Suite B-41 Cincinnati, OH 45202 Contact: Nancy Ruhe-Munch, Executive Director Phone: 513-721-5683 Fax: 513-345-4489 Web site: www.pomc.com E-mail: natlpomc@aol.com National Organization for Victim Assistance 1730 Park Road, NW Washington, DC 20010 Contact: Marlene A. Young, Ph.D., J.D. Executive Director Phone: 202-232-6682 800-TRY-NOVA Fax: 202-462-2255 Web site: www.try-nova.org E-mail: marlene@try-nova.org National Resource Center on Domestic Violence 6400 Flank Drive Harrisburg, PA 17112-2778 Contact: Bonnie Fowler Phone: 800-537-2238 TTY: 800-553-2508 Fax: 717-545-9456 National Sexual Violence Resource Center 123 North Enola Drive Enola, PA 17025 Contact: Karen Baker, Project Director Phone: 877-739-3895 TTY: 717-909-0715 Fax: 717-909-0714 Web site: www.nsvrc.org E-mail: resources@ nsvrc.org Police Executive Research Forum 1120 Connecticut Avenue, NW, RM 930 Washington, DC 20036 Contact: Clifford Karchmer Phone: 202-466-7820 Fax: 202-466-7826 Web site: www.policeforum.org E-mail: ckarchmer@policeforum.org The Spiritual Dimension in Victim Services P.O. Box 1124 Isle of Palms, SC 29451 Contact: Scott Beard Phone: 843-886-3198 Fax: 843-886-8547 E-mail: dsbeard@bellsouth.net Stephanie Roper Committee & Foundation 14750 Main St., 1B Upper Marlboro, MD 20772-3055 Contact: Roberta Roper, Executive Director Phone: 301-952-2319 877 VICTIM-1 Fax: 301-952-2319 Web site: www.stephanieroper.org E-mail: mail@stephanieroper.org Victims' Assistance Legal Organization (VALOR) 8180 Greensboro Drive, Suite 1070 McLean, Virginia 22102-3823 Contact: Morna Murray, JD, Executive Director Phone: 703-748-0811 Fax: 703-356-5085 Web site: www.valor-national.org E-mail: mmurray@valor-national.org