We are proud to join organizations from coast to coast to commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) from April 6–12, 2025. 

This annual week of awareness is organized by the U.S. Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime. This year’s theme of KINSHIP is a call to action to recognize that shared humanity should be at the center of supporting all survivors and victims of crime. 

MARSY’S LAW 

In partnership with Marsy’s Law for Kentucky, we will be displaying purple solar lights at our emergency shelter to highlight victims’ rights. Under Kentucky’s Marsy’s Law, crime victims have these constitutional rights: 

• Timely notice of all proceedings. 

• Be heard in any proceeding involving release, plea, sentencing, or consideration of pardon, commutation, granting of reprieve, or other matter involving the right of a victim. 

• Be present at all proceedings, other than Grand Jury proceedings. 

• Consult with the attorney for the Commonwealth or designee. 

• Timely notice of release or escape of the accused. 

• Have their safety and their family’s safety considered in setting bail, the defendant’s release and conditions of release. 

• Fairness and consideration of the victims’ safety, dignity, and privacy. 

Visit the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General for more information about Marsy’s Law.

CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION 

Kentucky victims of crimes may also file a claim with the Public Protection Cabinet Office of Claims and Appeals to request payment or reimbursement for expenses related to crimes when no other resources are available. The Crime Victims Compensation Board (CVCB) will consider assistance with these and other expenses related to the crime: 

• Medical expenses  

• Relocation and temporary housing expenses  

• Loss of earnings resulting from the crime  

• Loss of financial support resulting from the crime  

• Lost earnings from bereavement in homicide cases  

• Expenses related to court proceedings  

• Emotional support animal expenses  

• Reimbursement for items seized by law enforcement  

• Tattoo removal for survivors of human trafficking 

Learn more about filing a claim for Crime Victim Compensation here.