Carper to Kick-Off Criminal Justice Council’s Statewide Victim Assistance Conference Second DayDaylong Forum to Focus on Victims’ Needs; Impact of Terrorism; Other Topics

NEWARK, DE – Senator Tom Carper will kick-off day two of the Criminal Justice Council’s Eighth Statewide Victim’s Assistance Conference tomorrow. Carper’s speech will focus on tackling terrorism and the importance of combating domestic violence and violent crime. “Certainly we need to act together to set up strategies and support systems to continue tackling violent crime. The more we learn, the less fearful we can become,” Carper said. “We need a frank discussion on the risks of terrorism here at home. Delawareans are wondering what is being done to protect their families and neighbors. Armed with knowledge and support, we can face the challenges put before us.” The Criminal Justice Council event will focus on topics such as victim services, teenage victims, traumatic loss, domestic violence, homeland security and tackling terrorism. The two-day conference began yesterday with a focus on victims’ rights. Carper and Senator Joe Biden announced earlier this year announced a major boost in funding to combat domestic abuse and violence against women. With an additional $874,000 in federal grant monies through the S*T*O*P Violence Against Women program and the Violence Against Women Act of 2000 (VAWA 2000), state law enforcement and advocacy groups now have access to increased resources to enhance victim safety and hold offenders accountable. WHO: Senator Tom Carper, the Criminal Justice Council, 75 to 100 others. WHAT: Kick-off Conference on Victims’ Assistance and Tackling Terrorism WHERE: Clayton Hall, University of Delaware, Newark, DE WHEN: 9:00 am to 9:30 am, Wednesday, October 30, 2002