The city of Suffolk is joining others around the country in recognizing this week as Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

Some special events are planned, according to Victim/Witness Services Director Diane Bryant of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

“Crime Victims’ Rights Week is an annual event across the country and for the city of Suffolk,” Bryant said. “We recognize those programs that provide services to crime victims and witnesses and take the opportunity to look at the work and progress that has been done in terms of the victims movement,” Bryant said.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Virginia Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, which codified state funding for departments like Bryant’s and also set forth that victims can receive services like financial assistance, courtroom accompaniment, notice of developments in the court case, the opportunity to deliver a victim impact statement prior to sentencing, and more.

“Before 1995, victims did not or at least didn’t feel that they had any rights,” Bryant said.

Commonwealth’s Attorney C. Phillips “Phil” Ferguson had started the victim/witness program in his office in 1983. He was able to get full-time funding in 1986, before the state law passed.

This year’s theme for Crime Victims’ Rights Week is “Engaging Communities, Empowering Victims.”

“I think it is a significant theme this year in particular,” Bryant said. “It emphasizes the entire community. It takes the community to heal and to empower victims. Communities can become more involved by letting victims know what services are available to them.”

Bryant also said the special week emphasizes the universality of crime.

“Anyone, under any circumstance, can become the victim of a crime,” Bryant said. “It’s always good to remind ourselves of that.”

In recognition of the special week, a blood drive will be held next Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the Bloodmobile in front of the Mills E. Godwin Jr. courts building, 150 N. Main St.

In addition, the front lobby of the courthouse will feature a crime clock with crime statistics, as well as a wreath in memory of victims of crime in 2014.

Several prosecutors in the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office will make presentations to local school and community groups throughout the week as well.