U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain, Advocates for Crime Victims, Pennsylvania 2026

PHILADELPHIA – As millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, U.S. Attorney William M. McSwain announced that his Office will be celebrating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week this week, April 19-25.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week creates an opportunity for communities to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services, celebrate the progress achieved, and honor victims and the professionals who serve them. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981. This year’s theme is “Seek Justice, Ensure Victims’ Rights, and Inspire Hope.”

“Every year, millions of Americans suffer the shock and trauma of criminal victimization, affecting their well-being and sense of security and dignity,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “To these victims, we affirm our unwavering commitment to supporting them in their hour of need. We also commend the thousands of victim advocates and public safety professionals who labor tirelessly to secure victims’ rights and support survivors.”

“I am immensely proud of the work my Office does every day to give victims a voice in our criminal justice system and to provide them with the support and services they need,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week creates a unique opportunity to increase awareness of the services available for crime victims. Our goal is to ensure that victims and witnesses are always treated fairly during the prosecution process and that their rights are vigorously protected.”

The Victim/Witness Assistance Unit professionals in the U.S. Attorney’s Office provide crime victims with case status information, education regarding the criminal justice system, court accompaniment, crisis intervention, and referrals to various social service organizations. For detailed information about the rights federal crime victims have and the victim/witness resources available, please consult our website at https://www.justice.gov/usao-edpa/victim-witness-resources.

The Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year.

U.S. Attorney McSwain emphasized the importance of supporting victims throughout the criminal justice process. “We will continue to provide the necessary resources and services to ensure that victims receive the support they need,” he said.

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