Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta emphasized the importance of supporting victims and survivors of crimes by highlighting resources available through the California Department of Justice's Victims' Services Unit (VSU). Bonta urged service providers and the public to utilize these resources to ensure that crime victims are aware of their rights and the protections available to them in California.

Bonta stated, "Victims of crime often struggle to rebuild their lives, and so, it is incumbent on all of us — in particular those of us in positions of power — to have their backs." He emphasized the DOJ's commitment to providing life-saving resources to those impacted by crime, leading with compassion and offering support year-round.

The VSU offers victim-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive support services to crime victims, including underserved populations. The unit provides updates on cases handled by DOJ prosecutors, access to mental health services, and assistance through the California Victim Compensation Board. Publications such as the Marsy's Rights Card and the Sexual Assault Survivor's Bill of Rights offer tailored resources for victims.

In addition to the VSU, there are various additional resources available for victims, including the Victim Compensation Board, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and the National Human Trafficking Hotline. These resources aim to provide support, counseling, and assistance to victims of different types of crimes.

Attorney General Bonta's commitment to protecting victims of crime and violence is exemplified by his advocacy for increased funding for crime victim service programs. He has urged Congress to provide critical support and services to victims and survivors of crime and has sponsored bills to levy increased monetary penalties on corporations convicted of criminal offenses to fund victim services in California.

To access information on resources or receive notifications related to cases prosecuted by the Attorney General's Office, individuals can visit oag.ca.gov/victimservices, call VSU at (877) 433-9069, or contact VSU directly. The work of the VSU can be further explored through the "Demystifying the DOJ Presentation on the Victims' Services Unit."

Overall, the efforts led by Attorney General Bonta and the resources highlighted during National Crime Victims' Rights Week aim to empower and support victims and survivors of crimes, ensuring they have the necessary assistance and resources to heal and rebuild their lives.