Itâs no secret that the last year has been a time of great challenge for crime victims and their families. The pandemic has resulted in more social isolation, economic uncertainty, and anxiety that experts say has triggered an increase in domestic violence, sexual assault and child and elder abuse.
This pandemic-driven increase has strained resources and limited in-person outreach and care, putting added pressure on victim service providers and their organizations, impairing their ability to adequately help victims and their families. Additionally, law enforcement personnel, first responders and our communities are struggling to meet the increased need.
During the 40th anniversary of National Crime Victimsâ Rights Week, I am urging Idahoans to join others across the nation to purposefully consider what we, individually and collectively can do to improve community safety and wellbeing.