For Immediate Release:
April 29, 2026

County Commissioners proclaim April 19-25
as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

FREEHOLD, NJ – The Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners proclaimed April 19-25 as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week during a workshop meeting on April 23.

The proclamation was presented by Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone to Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago and First Assistant Prosecutor Julia Alonso.

“During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, law enforcement officials seek to educate the public about resources that are available to victims of crime,” said Commissioner Director Thomas A. Arnone, liaison to the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office. “In Monmouth County, the Prosecutor’s Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy is committed to helping victims navigate the justice system and ensure their rights are upheld. Trained advocates work directly with victims to explain their options and connect them to essential services.”

The Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy offers a wide range of services, including providing information about the criminal and juvenile justice systems, as well as updates on the status and disposition of a case to those involved. Support is offered through crisis intervention, court accompaniment for proceedings such as Grand Jury and juvenile hearings, and practical assistance like transportation when subpoenaed, secure waiting areas, and childcare during testimony. Additional services include facilitating the return of property held in evidence, assisting with Victim Information and Impact Statements, and guiding individuals through applications for compensation and restitution. Services also extend to providing employer, school, and creditor letters for court attendance, offering counseling and social service referrals, assisting with registration for custody notification systems like VINE or Parole, and arranging interpreting and serological testing when needed.

“Since 1981, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week has inspired the nation to confront and remove barriers that hinder justice for all victims,” added Commissioner Director Arnone. “The 2026 theme, ‘Listen, Act, Advocate,’ calls on all of us to listen to victims’ stories, respond with compassion and purpose, and stand as unwavering champions for their rights and well-being.”

To learn more about the Office of Victim-Witness Advocacy, go to mcponj.org.

For news and alerts from Monmouth County, go to visitmonmouth.com or follow @MonmouthGovNJ on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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