Concord, NH – Attorney General John M. Formella and Governor Chris Sununu officially recognize April 24 -30, 2022 as "Crime Victims' Rights Week " in the State of New Hampshire to raise awareness of the important victim-focused work provided by New Hampshire's Office of Victim/Witness Assistance.

"Providing victims with knowledge of their rights and available services further strengthens their ability to recover by restoring a sense of self-empowerment," said Governor Chris Sununu. "New Hampshire is fortunate to have an engaged and proactive community committed to ensuring that victims of crime know their rights and the resources available to them."

"Every year, too many Americans suffer trauma as victims of crime, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity," said Attorney General Formella. "To these victims, we are sending the message that we are firmly committed to supporting them. We also applaud our victim advocates and public safety professionals who dedicate themselves to supporting survivors."

This week the Attorney General's Office joins the Governor's Office, organizations and direct support agencies from across the state in an effort to share information and available resources for victims of crime.

The Attorney General's Office of Victim/Witness Assistance provides direct services and 24-hour a day support to victims in all of the state's homicide cases, as well as to victims of elder abuse or financial exploitation. This office is also tasked with developing policies and training resources for professionals throughout the state working with victims of crime. More information about the Office of Victim/Witness Assistance and other resources are available here: https://www.doj.nh.gov/criminal/victim-assistance/index.htm.

New Hampshire joins communities nationwide in observing National Crime Victims' Rights Week. This year's theme is, "Rights, Access, Equity for All Victims." In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims' Rights Week to acknowledge the abuse and trauma victims of crimes often experience and to recognize victim advocates. Each April, New Hampshire is proud to promote awareness about victimization, reaffirm a commitment to reducing trauma for victims and their loved ones, honor crime victims and advocate on their behalf.