This week marks National Crime Victims' Rights Week. During this annual observance, the Fairfax County Police Department's Victim Services Section recognizes and honors the many victims and survivors of crime.

The Fairfax County Police Department’s Victim Services Section are a group of committed personnel that spend their working hours making sure crime victims and their families have the resources they need as they proceed through long, painful and difficult journeys that no one can ever prepare for.

The Victim Services Section provides support and advocacy to victims of crime including domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, homicide and robbery.  In 2010, nine Victim Specialists that make up the unit worked over 3,500 cases. They are the first point of contact for crime victims seeking information and support in navigating the criminal justice system.

“The experience of being a victim of crime is a life-altering experience and no two people experience this trauma in the same way. Victims move their lives forward in unique ways. By treating these men, women and children with compassion, dignity and respect as they move forward, members of the Victim Services Section often provide a sense of clarity and hope for crime victims and survivors,” said Saly Fayez, Director of the Victim Services Unit.