All states and the federal government have comprehensive victims’ rights laws, and 33 states have constitutional amendments to protect victims’ rights. Every state has a victim compensation fund, and more than 10,000 victim assistance programs have been established nationwide. While much progress has been made, continuing efforts to support crime victims are important and necessary.

In order to support and assist victims, the Dakota County Attorney’s Office established a Victim/Witness Assistance Program in 1977. Since that time, thousands of victims have received non-judgmental support, case specific information, and guidance through the criminal justice system. These services assist victims in recovering from the harm caused by crime.

Victims’ rights are a critical component of the promise of “justice for all,” the foundation for our system of justice in America. Our nation must strive to protect, expand, and observe crime victims’ rights so that there truly is justice for victims and justice for all.

Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom commented: “Providing support and assistance to crime victims is a high priority of my office, as it is for other prosecutors across Minnesota and our nation. Please join me in keeping the needs of crime victims in mind during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and throughout the year.”

If you or someone you know has been a victim of crime, help is available. For more information regarding crime victims’ rights and services in Dakota County, you may contact Kelly Nicholson, Victim Witness Coordinator, Dakota County Attorney’s Office at 651-438-4471, toll free at 1-877-396-6382, or access the Dakota County Attorney’s website at www.co.dakota.mn.us/departments/attorney.