D S S P R E S S R E L E A S E
For Immediate Release:
April 14, 2008
Contact: Sara Anderson
(573) 526-0407
DSS Division of Youth Services Recognizes National Crime Victims' Rights Week
Jefferson City — The Missouri Department of Social Services' (DSS) Division of Youth Services (DYS) is recognizing National Crime Victims' Rights Week April 14-18 in DYS facilities across the state. Youth are attending a series of special events during this designated week regarding victims' rights and the impact of crime on society.
“By taking time to observe this week, we are allowing the young people in our care the opportunity to see the impact their crimes have on members of society,” said DYS Director Tim Decker. “Education is a key component of the treatment youth receive during their time with DYS. Showing them first hand the effects their actions have on others is one of the best forms of education we can provide.”
The Missouri Department of Public Safety will recognize National Crime Victims' Awareness week in Jefferson City the week of April 14th with their annual ceremony in the Capital. During this week, DYS youth across the state will take part in rallies, candlelight vigils, memorial walks, balloon releases and other activities to commemorate those victimized through their past actions.
One of the larger events in which DYS youth participate during the week is the Victims' Rights Odyssey in Southwest Missouri. During the Odyssey, DYS youth from the 24 counties of the Southwest Region assume the role of a crime victim. In this role, they interact with various booths representing a mock city and follow the steps a person would take after being victimized such as having to file police reports, seek medical attention, replace stolen property, etc. This experience gives the young people an opportunity to walk in the shoes of a crime victim in order to understand the impact their crimes have on victims.
For additional information about National Crime Victims' Rights Week events in your area or ideas on how to serve victims in your community, please contact…
- Courtney Collier, (816) 889-2428, Northwest Region
- Larry Strecker, (573) 449-2939, Northeast Region
- Lew Mueller, (314) 340-6904, St. Louis Region
- Paula Shaw, (573) 840-9540, Southeast Region
- John Creson, (417) 895-6485, Southwest Region
