Crime Victims’ Rights Week Proclamation signed in three counties

This week marks a shared proclamation from three neighboring counties, Fannin, Pickens, and Gilmer, as they recognize, in partnership with the Appalchian Judicial Circuit’s District Attorney’s (DA) Office, it as Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

An awareness program and a reinvigoration for efforts put forth to protect and provide for victims and witnesses of crimes, these proclamations show each county’s support for such efforts and their dedication to continuing them throughout the year. The Proclamation signings are being done in conjunction with the National Crime Victims’ Rights week and in coordination with the Appalachian Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Program.

This year’s national and local theme is “Seek Justice | Ensure Victims’ Rights | Inspire Hope” which celebrates the progress made by those before who have worked so hard as they look to a future of crime victim services that is even more inclusive, accessible, and trauma-informed.

The Proclamations signed by the Chairmen of the Boards of Commissioners, Rob Jones in Pickens, Charlie Paris in Gilmer, and Stan Helton in Fannin, recognizes all of those ideals as well as acknowledging that due to the continued transmission of COVID-19, now, and over the past several weeks, our area, our state and our nation, have been facing unprecedented times.

The DA’s Office has many community partners that provide invaluable services in our area, like our local food banks and Family Connection and the Appalachian Children’s Center. Due to the financial hardship that COVID-19 has caused, many families are in need of these resources. Unfortunately, due to the constraints of the shelter-in-place orders, even though these organizations have an increase in demand, their ability to fund-raise has been extremely limited.

The DA’s Office said, “In conjunction with Crime Victims’ Rights Week, signs bearing the message of “In God We Trust” are being placed throughout Gilmer county in hopes that some will take encouragement from our nation’s motto of “In God We Trust.”

The Victim Advocacy Program of the District Attorney’s office continues to assist victims in obtaining restitution, refer victims to appropriate public and non-profit partners for services, and help victims who qualify for crime victim compensation.