ASSEMBLY RESOLUTION No. 81

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

INTRODUCED MARCH 28, 1996

By Assemblyman DeCROCE, Assemblywomen CRECCO and Myers

An Assembly Resolution designating April 21 through April 27, 1996 as "Crime Victims' Rights Week" in New Jersey.

Whereas, Nearly 50,000 New Jersey residents were reported to be victims of violent crime in the most recent reporting year; and

Whereas, The citizens of this State have every right to be protected from criminal attack and to live safe and secure lives, free from the fear of violent crime, bias and hate-related incidents, domestic violence, child and elder abuse, and drug-related criminal activity; and

Whereas, Victims' rights are recognized in this State's constitution and this State is a leader in compensating victims and advocating for their rights through such programs as the Victims of Crimes Compensation Board and the Victim Witness Advocacy Program; and

Whereas, This House recognizes its duty and responsibility to promote and advance the rights of victims through legislation and through cooperation with governmental, private and non-profit organizations; and

Whereas, It is altogether fitting and proper, and within the public interest, for this House to set forth its message of support for those who have been innocently victimized by the brutality of senseless acts of violence; and

Whereas, The members of this House share a deep sense of empathy for the plight of crime victims and a determination to raise the public's consciousness about the impact of crime upon the victim, the victim's family and friends, and society; now, therefore,

    Be It Resolved by the General Assembly of the State of New Jersey:

    1. The week of April 21 to April 27, 1996 is hereby designated as Crime Victims' Rights Week in New Jersey.

    2. This House hereby recognizes, respects and supports the purpose and goals of the National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

    3. This House requests that all citizens of this State as well as private and public organizations recognize April 21 through April 27, 1996 as Crime Victims' Rights Week in New Jersey, and take appropriate actions to affirm the support and empathy of law-abiding citizens for the victims of violent crime.

STATEMENT

    This resolution designates April 21 through April 27, 1996 as Crime Victims' Rights Week in New Jersey. This resolution recognizes the need for support and public awareness for the plight of innocent victims of senseless acts of violence, and requests that all New Jersey citizens as well as private and public organizations recognize the week. Crime Victims' Rights Week in New Jersey corresponds with the National Crime Victims' Rights Week designated by the President of the United States.

Designates April 21 through April 27, 1996 as "Crime Victims' Rights Week" in New Jersey.