TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Every year millions of people are victims of crimes.
Some of those people are left feeling like they don't have support or the same rights as everyone.
"It really helps when you are in the company of other people that have gone through what you have gone through." said Aleta Jarrett, crime victim advocate
Aleta Jarrett says she has been on a painful journey, one that started when her father and brother were both murdered years ago.
"You're a member of a club that nobody else wants to be a member of" said Jarrett
While the pain might never fade, Jarrett has been able to find comfort with others who share similar stories by joining the Peyton Tuthill Foundation, founded by Pat Tuthill.
Tuthill's daughter was killed murdered in 1999.
To kickoff a week dedicated to victims of crime, the foundation held a unity walk Sunday.
National crime victims week brings awareness to people who were killed, survivors, and their families.
"Our main focus for everyone is to create public safety and help each other"said Pat Tuthill, Founder of Peyton Hill Foundation
Organizers and crime victim advocates also say, the national week not only brings awareness but has already produced results.
"We did pass the Marsy's law which will make sure that everybody in Florida who is a victim of crime will be treated equally and get the same rights under our Florida constitution" said Jarett
Marsy's Law was passed earlier this year.
Some of the highlights fro mthe law include:
-The right to be present at all proceedings involving the case
-The right to timely notice of any release, escape or death of the accused, if the accused is in custody or on supervision at the time of death.
"Marsy's law I don't think passes without these efforts long term overtime and the education is important part of it and a reminder for the community." said Chief Michael DeLeo, Tallahassee Police Department
The mission of this week is to, honor the past, while bringing hope for the future.
The Leon County Sheriffs Office and other organizations will host events all week as a part of the national crime victims week.
If you would like to see all the events you can click on the link below:
