April 19-25 is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

This year marks the 45th annual National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, first proclaimed in 1981 by President Ronald Reagan. The 2026 theme is “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities.”

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is an important time to honor the strength and resilience of survivors, recognize the dedicated professionals and organizations that support them, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring victims’ voices are heard in the justice system. Crime affects people physically, emotionally, financially and spiritually, and no one should face those impacts alone.
The week highlights the more than 12,000 victim service programs nationwide that provide critical support, backed by more than 32,000 laws protecting victims’ rights. It also encourages communities to confront barriers to justice, forge partnerships and strengthen services for survivors.
For more information about National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, resources and ways to get involved, visit the Office for Victims of Crime website at ovc.ojp.gov/ncvrw2026 or the National Center for Victims of Crime at victimsofcrime.org.

New York Announces Increased Reimbursement for Crime Victims

© WNY Media Company:

With the previous cap set at $500, that means the new cap is now set at $2,500.

The money is designed to be used by victims to replace stolen, damaged or destroyed property during a crime.

The increased cap applies to any claim filed with the Office of Victim Services on or after October 6, 2022.

April 19 to 25 Proclaimed National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2020

From the White Proclamation on National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, 2020:

In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to acknowledge the abuse and trauma that victims of crimes often experience, and to recognize the tireless work of dedicated advocates who have taken up the cause of supporting crime victims across our country.

Thanks to the efforts of these individuals, more victims are receiving the care they deserve and accessing tools to empower them as they recover.

This week, we express our appreciation for those who support crime victims, and we reaffirm our strong commitment to reducing the trauma of crime for victims and their loved ones.