Orange County Holds Crime Victims' Vigil

From the Office of the Orange County Executive:

Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and District Attorney David Hoovler announced Thursday, April 7 that the 2016 Orange County Crime Victims’ Vigil will be held Thursday, April 14 at 5:30 p.m. at the Arboretum at Thomas Bull Memorial Park in Montgomery.

The event coincides with National Crime Victims’ Week, which runs Sunday, April 10 through Saturday, April 16. This year’s theme is "Serving Victims, Building Trust, Restoring Hope."

“This vigil serves as an opportunity to support victims of crime and their families,” Neuhaus said. “Advocacy for crime victims is important to all of us in Orange County and events such as this provide them with a voice. I would like to thank the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program for putting this event together. It gives the community an opportunity to show support and compassion for crime victims.”

The Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program is dedicated to addressing the social, emotional and financial needs of crime victims and their immediate families, helping them with a variety of services and the filing of compensation claims with the New York State Office of Victims Services. The Orange County Crime Victim Coalition is comprised of the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program, Fox Hill and Bellvale Communities, Mental Health Association of Orange County-Rape Crisis, Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Orange County Police Chief’s Association, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Orange County STOP-DWI and Safe Homes of Orange County.

“This vigil serves as an opportunity to remember those who have lost a loved one to violent crime,” Orange County District Attorney David Hoovler said. “It also provides a chance to support survivors. As District Attorney, I always try to put the interests of crime victims first. My office will remain vigilant when it comes to prosecuting violent crimes in Orange County.”

Those wishing to participate in the vigil are advised that some content may not be appropriate for younger children. Crisis counselors will be available throughout the ceremony. Photographs of loved ones may be brought for display at the ceremony.

Interested individuals must contact Justin Rodriguez, assistant to the county executive for communications and media relations, at (845) 291-3255 or jrodriguez@orangecountygov.com for further information.