Attorney General's News Release

April 13, 2007

Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 22-28; free resources to help victims available from Attorney General Nixon

Jefferson City, Mo.— The office of Attorney General Jay Nixon will join other law enforcement agencies and victims’ rights advocacy groups across Missouri and the nation in commemorating the 2007 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week during the week of April 22-28. The theme of this year’s observance is “Victims Rights: Every Victim. Every Time.”

“This annual event focuses public attention on the need to strengthen and maintain the rights of crime victims, but being there to support them needs to be done year-round,” Nixon said. “We have made tremendous strides in the last 25 years, but much more needs to be done.”

Nixon is highlighting two free publications from his office to help victims as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The booklet “Crime Victims’ Rights” provides information on those rights in Missouri, including the right to be notified by law enforcement authorities of court proceedings, parole hearings and release dates. There also are sections explaining the Crime Victims’ Compensation Program; the court process, including pre-trial, trial and post-trial proceedings; and various terms used in the criminal justice process.

The other booklet, “Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence,” explains how Missourians can obtain protective court orders; who to call for safe shelters and support services; and where shelters are located in Missouri. There also is a phone list of victim advocates by county in the booklet, including the four victims’ advocates who are part of the Attorney General’s Office. Free copies of both booklets can be ordered online at ago.mo.gov or by calling 573-751-8844. The publications also are available to download at ago.mo.gov.

Nixon is scheduled to speak at Crime Victims’ Rights Week ceremonies in Lexington and Jefferson City. He has been a leader in supporting and expanding the rights of crime victims during his 20 years of public service, including increasing funding for domestic violence shelters and fighting for the rights of victims to be present during court proceedings.

Download “Crime Victims’ Rights” publication

Download “Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence,” publication

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to the Press Secretary.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818