LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor David A. Paterson to
proclaim the week of April 18-24, 2010, as Crime Victims' Rights Week in
the State of New York

WHEREAS, There were an estimated 23 million violent crimes against
people and property across America in 2002; and
WHEREAS, Every man, woman and child who is victimized by crime in
America deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, and deserves
services and support to help them in the aftermath of crime; and
WHEREAS, While New York State has adopted laws to protect the rights
of victims of crime and provide them with essential services, it remains
the responsibility of all citizens to ensure that these laws are upheld;
and
WHEREAS, Important efforts have been implemented to ensure treatment
to help victims begin healing; among the volunteers and professionals
who work toward this are law enforcement officers, prosecutors, victim
service providers, correction officers, parole and probation officers,
counselors, physicians, health care professionals, and the many others
whose dedication and service to crime victims help lessen trauma and
assist in personal recovery; and
WHEREAS, Americans have joined together annually for the past 30 years
to recognize the needs and rights of crime victims and survivors; and
WHEREAS, Nationally, Crime Victims' Rights Week will be observed April
18-24, 2010; and
WHEREAS, Crime victims' organizations throughout New York State will
conduct programs and hold ceremonies to honor and support crime victims
and their rights, to educate citizens about violence and victimization,
to encourage support for victims' rights and services; and
WHEREAS, Respect and dignity are basic rights of all those who have
been victimized by crime and those responsible must be held accountable
for their actions; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor David A. Paterson to proclaim the week of April
18-24, 2010, as Crime Victims' Rights Week in the State of New York; and
be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New
York.