Community-Oriented Activities Are Scheduled During The Week To Raise Awareness About The Rights Of Victims And The Services Available In Ulster County

Kingston, NY - Ulster County Executive Mike Hein proclaimed the week of April 10^th Crime Victims’ Rights Week in Ulster County to raise awareness about the rights of victims and highlight the many services and resources available throughout the County. Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a national campaign lead by the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) that promotes victims’ rights, and honors crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf.  This year’s theme is “Serving Victims, Building Trust, Restoring Hope” which focuses on the importance of establishing trust with victims because early intervention can help prevent both further victimization and involvement in the criminal justice system, while addressing the cycle of violence and restoring hope for the future.

Michael P. Hein, County Executive

“We all long for the day that there are no victims of crime, but until that day the reality is that no crime victim should have to go through the healing process feeling under-informed or alone,” said County Executive Mike Hein.  “The Ulster County Crime Victims Assistance Program is always there so victims know exactly where they can immediately turn for help and compassion; whether it is helping navigate the judicial system, creating a support system or simply, and most importantly, recovering from a potentially life-altering incident.  We are committed in Ulster County to making sure they have all the help and support they need.  The dedication of our Crime Victim’s Assistance Program and County Judicial System, as well as the many local organizations that work together tirelessly to help victims of crime and provide hope and recovery are invaluable during emotional and trying times for victims and their families.”

Holley Carnright, Ulster County District Attorney

“The prosecution of an individual charged with a crime is only one facet of the justice system.    All too often victims feel alone and helpless, but fortunately, here in Ulster County there are many services available for victims and their families,” said Ulster County District Attorney Holley Carnright.  “I appreciate the Ulster County Crime Victims Assistance Program and County Executive Hein for highlighting Crime Victims’ Rights Week.  It is so important that people know there is help and support readily available at any time.”

Madeleine Miller, Sr. Crime Victim Counselor

“The purpose of this week is to raise awareness of the many services and resources available to victims of crime, whether it is through Ulster County government, local service providers, or by means of partnering with community-based organizations,” said Madeleine Miller, Sr. Crime Victim Counselor. “The ongoing process of building partnerships with our community leaders and service providers is crucial, in order to better address all victims’ needs and improve our ability to serve them.  Our office together with County Executive Hein, realize the importance of making sure Ulster County residents are informed and know where they can turn in the event they become a victim of crime.”  

Lydia Diaz, Educator at the Ulster County Crime Victims’ Assistance Program

“This week would not be possible without the ongoing support of County Executive Hein, who recognizes the importance of reaching out to victims in crisis, as well as the Office of Victim Services which provided the funding,” said Lydia Diaz, Educator at the Ulster County Crime Victims’ Assistance Program. “The Crime Victim’s Assistance Program and its collaborative partners have provided assistance and support to thousands of victims and their families for the past thirty years, yet many people are still unaware of the services available, including the caring volunteers who are standing by to respond to a hotline call, or the staff members who can advocate for them in court or provide them with support whether or not they decide to press charges.  Crime Victims’ Rights Week is an opportunity to provide important information to residents on the resources available in Ulster County.”

Calendar of Events for Crime Victims’ Rights Week:

April 11^th:

• Movie Screening “The Hunting Ground” at NYSUT Conference Center 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (201 Stockade Drive, Kingston)

April 12^th:

• Keith Bennett – Self Defense Workshop at Fair Street Reformed Church 5:30 – 7 p.m. (209 Fair Street, Kingston)

April 13^th:

• SUNY New Paltz Wellness Fair Gift Basket Giveaway 10:00 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Student Union Building, SUNY New Paltz, 1 Hawk Drive, New Paltz)

April 14^th:

• Resource Fair at Ulster BOCES Conference Center 1:00 p.m. – 3 p.m.  (175 Route 32 North, New Paltz)

• Movie Screening “Heaven’s Rain” at NYSUT Conference Center 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. (201 Stockade Drive, Kingston)

April 15^th:

• Resource Fair at Pine Hill Community Center 10:30 – 12:30 p.m. (287 Main St, Pine Hill)

Details and updates regarding the activities can also be viewed by visiting the following website and Facebook pages: http://ulstercountyny.gov, http://ulstercountyny.gov/social-services/domestic-violence-council and www.facebook.com/uccvap.

Some of the Ulster County services available for victims of crime include a 24 hour hotline; crisis counseling; advocacy; accompaniment and support; information; referrals to appropriate outside agencies; and assistance in preparing Victim Impact Statements for Pre-Plea and Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports.  In addition, the Ulster County Crime Victims Assistance Program is the only New York State Department of Health certified rape crisis program in Ulster County.  This allows for confidential services to victims of sexual assault, a critically important service.  The CVAP Hotline is 845-340-3442 and additional information can be found at http://ulstercountyny.gov/probation/crime-victim-assistance.