Wilmington Police Department observes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

The Wilmington Police Department is observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week from April 6-12th.  (Photo by Kenny Eliason)

WILMINGTON- The Wilmington Police Department is observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week from April 6 to 12, joining agencies nationwide in raising awareness and supporting victims of crime.

In recognition of the week, WPD’s Victim Services Unit and Youth Response Unit are playing a key role in educating the community on the support available to crime victims. Through various events and outreach efforts, these units are working to ensure that those affected by crime know where to turn for help.

The theme for this year’s National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is “Connecting < KINSHIP > Healing.” According to organizers, this theme underscores the importance of shared humanity and the vital connections that are necessary to support survivors of crime. “KINSHIP” is described as the bond that drives connections to services, rights, and healing, marking the beginning of victim advocacy.

“True healing begins with connection, and at WPD Victim Services, we are dedicated to ensuring every survivor feels seen, heard, and supported,” said Stephanie Hamilton, WPD Victim Services Supervisor.

“Through compassion and advocacy, we stand with victims on their path to recovery and justice.”

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Founded in 1991, the WPD Victim Services Unit provides critical services to victims of violent crimes in Wilmington. This team offers support, crisis counseling, and assistance navigating the criminal justice system from the time of the incident through judicial proceedings. Services are available to victims of domestic violence and also include assistance for Spanish-speaking victims. The unit has grown from a single grant-funded position to a team of five employees, offering around-the-clock support with a rotating on-call schedule. collaborate with an expanded network of providers to ensure victims have access to the full range of services.

The WPD Youth Response Unit, a collaboration between the Wilmington Police Department, the Delaware Division of Prevention and Behavioral Health Services, and A Seed of Hope Counseling, provides specialized support for children and families. This unit offers free, voluntary trauma assessments and short-term counseling services to those who have been victims of, or witnesses to, traumatic events.

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Wilmington Police Chief Wilfredo Campos commended the members of both units for their tireless efforts to support victims and their families.

“Our Victim Services Unit and Youth Response Unit provide invaluable support to those affected by crime and violence, extending critical resources and helping to provide referrals to a range of services,” said Chief Campos. “We appreciate how hard these teams work to support our community.

Claudia Estrada

Claudia is a Philadelphia-based journalist and reporter passionate about storytelling that informs and engages the community. Claudia, a proud Temple University graduate, has built a career covering impactful stories and creating compelling content across digital and print media platforms. With a strong background in writing, editing, and research, Claudia has worked on various topics, from local news to in-depth features, always striving to deliver meaningful and accurate reporting.