What: Free and confidential crime victim services.
Where: 3600 Main St., Suite 200.
Information: 360-694-5624; 24-hour crisis line, 888-425-1176. http://www.lcsnw.org/vancouver/crimevictimservice.html
Crime victims’ rights have come a long way over the last 30 years, but advocates say they still have a way to go.
“It’s something that’s evolving constantly,” said Brenda Huffstutler, with the Crime Victim Advocacy Program through Lutheran Community Services Northwest.
As part of a national week honoring crime victims, Huffstutler held the organization’s second annual candlelight vigil Monday afternoon on the steps of the Clark County Courthouse in downtown Vancouver. She recalled how in 1984, the Victims of Crime Act was enacted, giving birth to many rights and assistance programs recognized in today’s court proceedings.
“We’ve made a lot of progress over the last 30 years,” she said.
On the courthouse steps, Vancouver Mayor Tim Leavitt made a proclamation recognizing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This week, he said, is a time for the city to express appreciation to victims who have used their experiences to build a more just community.
Arguably the most recognizable right is restitution. The reimbursement varies depending on the victims and their particular circumstances; it could include money awarded for mental health services or plastic surgery, Huffstutler said.
Other victims’ rights include being able to participate in the entire court process, being notified when an offender is released from prison and being able to submit a victim impact statement, which is reviewed when the offender is up for release.
As crime evolves, so do the needs of crime victims. Resources are still lacking and groups continue to be underserved, according to Huffstutler.
She pointed out that the Crime Victims Fund, supported by offenders’ fines and penalties, has become increasingly inclusive. Services are customized for human trafficking and domestic violence victims, members of the LGBT community and victims of elder abuse, for instance. The Crime Victims Advocacy Program, which is three years old, stabilizes victims and helps them get on with their lives.
“Here’s to another 30 years,” Leavitt said. “Let’s meet back here in 2044.”
