Orange County Will Host Annual Crime Victims’ Vigil

GOSHEN – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and Probation Director Timothy A. Davidian have announced that the 2022 Orange County Crime Victims’ Vigil will be held on Tuesday, April 26th at 6:00 p.m. at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center, located at 321 South William Street.

The event coincides with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), which runs from April 24th through 30th. The 2022 NCVRW theme is “Rights, Access, Equity, For All Victims. It underscores the importance of helping crime survivors find their justice by enforcing victims’ rights, expanding access to services, and ensuring equity and inclusion for all.
“We are proud to partner with law enforcement officials, advocates and community members at this important event, which serves as an opportunity to show support and compassion for crime victims and their families,” Neuhaus said. “It also allows us to honor those in our community who have been victims of crime. I thank the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program for putting this important community event together.”

The vigil’s program will include guest speakers and a ceremony at a memorial tree, which will be planted beforehand. The tree represents the strong foundation of support that exists for victims and their families in Orange County.

“This event is always a moving and healing moment for crime victims, their families and the community,” District Attorney David Hoovler said. “We want them to know that they are not alone and that we remember and care about them. My office will remain vigilant when it comes to prosecuting violent crimes in Orange County.”

The Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program is dedicated to addressing the social, emotional, and financial needs of crime victims and their immediate families by helping them with a variety of services, including filing compensation claims with the New York State Office of Victims Services. The Orange County Crime Victim Coalition is comprised of the Orange County Crime Victims Assistance Program, Fox Hill and Bellvale Communities, Mental Health Association of Orange County-Rape Crisis, Orange County District Attorney’s Office, Orange County Police Chief’s Association, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Orange County STOP-DWI, the New York State Police and Fearless! Hudson Valley, Inc.

Those wishing to participate in the Crime Victims’ Vigil are advised that some content may not be appropriate for younger children. Crisis counselors will be available throughout the ceremony. Photographs of loved ones may be brought for display and a roll call of crime victims will take place during the ceremony. Anyone wishing to be sure a name is included in the tribute may speak with a crime victim counselor before the ceremony by calling 291-4750.