The D.C. Victim Hotline officially launched on April 13 during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
The District officially launched a D.C. Victims Hotline April 13 to help residents who have been victimized by crime receive support services. The line is open 24 hours a day seven days a week.
“I am proud to announce the official launch of the D.C, Victim Hotline, which will provide free, confidential, around-the-clock information and referrals for victims of all crimes in the District of Columbia,” Councilmember Kenyan R. McDuffie (D-Ward 5) said in a press release.
The National Center for Victims of Crime, headquartered in D.C., unofficially launched the hotline in October of 2015, but the official launch was scheduled during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 10-16). According to the center’s website, the hotline is funded through a grant from the D.C. Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants, Executive Office of the Mayor. News reports said the hotline has received 125 calls so far.
The center also provides other online services such as a chat, blog, and downloadable materials to assist victims seeking help. The online chat feature is open from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at DCvictim.org/Chat.
According to data from the Metropolitan Police Department, as of April 19, violent crimes have increased by 14 percent from 1,457 to 1,661. So far this year, there have been 31 homicides, 87 sex abuse cases, 643 assaults with a dangerous weapon and 900 robberies.
“It’s the environment they’re in,” said Southeast D.C. resident Milton Jones. “People don’t have jobs, which results in a lot of robberies. I have friends who can’t get a job. And a buddy of mine was shot last Thursday.”
To reach the Victim’s Hotline, residents can call 1-844-4HELPDC or 1-844-443-5732, or visit DCvictim.org.
