Ventura County D.A. cites challenges for crime victims during COVID-19 crisis
VENTURA, Calif. - This week is National Crime Victims' Rights Week. It runs from April 19 - 25.
This year’s theme is Seek Justice | Ensure Victims’ Rights’ | Inspire Hope.
The Ventura County District Attorney's office has spent decades raising awareness about crime victims' issues and rights.
Every year, it joins victims, their loved ones, community leaders, advocates and local law enforcement during a ceremony and march during this important week. The events raise public awareness and give victims feelings of hope, justice, and healing.
However, those events are canceled this year due to the COVID-19 health crisis and Governor Newsom's statewide stay at home mandate.
“Observance of public health orders and social distancing practices prevent us from gathering in a public setting, but this national observance is of great importance. Let us all remember the personal stories of loss, survival, independence, strength, and resilience of crime victims and survivors and reflect upon them,” said Ventura County District Attorney Gregory D. Totten. "During this unprecedented time, many are faced with the additional challenges caused by health concerns, job loss, childcare, homeschooling, housing and food instability, and a host of other psychological and physical stressors. Any one of these challenges can be flashpoints for domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual violence, and other forms of interpersonal violence."
If you or someone you know is a victim of one of these crimes, there is help. You can call the Family Justice Center at 805-652-7655, email, or visit vcfjc.org for more information regarding the partners and services available.
Resources and contacts are also available at vcemergency.com. In an emergency, please call 911.
