Video Transcript

Hello. I’m Stanley Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office and I’m joined here today with Jessica Aber, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia and Christopher Kavanaugh, the United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia.

(SAC) April 23-29, 2023, is National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. This annual event highlights the importance of victim’s voices and understanding of the criminal justice system, and the advocates who assist in this endeavor. As law enforcement officials our roles in the justice system are not simply to protect our fellow Virginian’s by investigating crimes and prosecuting criminals; we also have the responsibility of providing victim services to those effected by federal crimes as they navigate through these traumatic and often life-altering circumstances.

(USAs) Both the FBI and USAO have Victim Specialists who are critical links - connecting victims to FBI special agents and our prosecutors throughout the entire judicial process. These Specialists ensure victims are afforded their rights under the law, and are connected with the appropriate support, services and resources to navigate the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.

(USAs) These services are afforded to victims and witnesses effected by violent crime, domestic and international terrorism events, civil rights violations, and white-collar and cyber-crimes who have suffered physical, financial or emotional trauma. With thorough investigations and forward-leaning prosecutions, it is our goal to seek justice – while at the forefront, safeguarding the fundamental rights of those most deeply affected – the victim.

(SAC) This week, and every week thereafter, we applaud the courageous men and women who come forward and diligently work with our teams to seek justice and hold criminals accountable. If you are a victim of a crime, we encourage you to come forward and report it to law enforcement. It may not be an easy walk…

(COLLECTIVELY) …but it’s one you won’t take alone.