PCF staff, community board members observe National Crime Victims' Rights Week

A Burr Oak tree and a commemorative sign are placed in front of the Putnamville Correctional Facility's Training Department, an area visible along U.S. 40 in southwestern Putnam County. The tree was donated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in honor of crime victims.

PUTNAMVILLE -- National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 22-28, was observed Thursday during a Community Advisory Board meeting and tree planting ceremony at the Putnamville Correctional Facility (PCF).

"We are excited to have the opportunity to further awareness of victims' rights and services," PCF Superintendent Stanley Knight said.

"You have collectively supported our endeavors and we wanted to share this significant event with you," Knight told board members Mary Brown, Clay County Corrections; Judge Blaine Akers, Clay County Superior Court; Charles Miles, past president of the Putnam County NAACP; Robert Huckabee, ISU professor; Joy Marley, director of People Pathways; State Sen. Pete Miller, District 24; Ed Burt, Brazil community leader; Charles Hawkins, assistant director ISU Correction Education Program; Alice Greenburg, Putnam County librarian; and Kelsey Kaufman, DePauw University professor.

A Burr Oak tree and a commemorative sign were placed in front of the facility's Training Department, an area visible to travelers along U.S. 40. The tree was donated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in honor of victims and services.

"We selected this location to ensure that visitors, staff and motorists are reminded daily of the necessity to reduce crime," Knight said, "and, hope that the challenges faced by victims, and, the dedication of those who have committed to providing services to victims will be continually recognized throughout the year."

On April 16, Indiana Gov. Mitch E. Daniels signed an executive order proclaiming April 22-28 "Crime Victims' Rights Week" in the state.

National Crime Victims' Rights Week was established in 1981 and sponsored by the Office for Victims of Crime. Each year, during April, events are held to promote recognition of victims of crime, victim services and their advocates.