Purple ribbon ceremony honors those lost to violent crimes

by WCYB Staff Thursday, April 22nd

BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. (WCYB) — A special event to honor victims of crime took place Wednesday as part of National Crime Victim’s Rights Week.

Members of the HOPE Organization visited the Sullivan County Justice Center to pin purple ribbons on prosecutors, investigators and victim advocates to show appreciation .

Joan Berry’s daughter was murdered in Knoxville in 2004 by a man who broke into her apartment and stabbed her 20 times.

She advocates victim awareness.

“It’s affected my life and family forever. Our lives will never be the same,” says Berry. It’s hard to describe what it does to you. There’s no words to express how this affects your life and your family’s life.”

Sullivan County District Attorney General Barry Staubus also hopes the pinning ceremony raises awareness.

“We want to recognize the victims, make the community aware of the victims, and also try to provide the resources and support to make their experiences as least traumatic as we can.” says Staubus.

The HOPE Organization helps victims and families struggling with losing a loved one.

You can wear purple this week to honor victims of crime.

Original Story Here: Purple ribbon ceremony honors those lost to violent crimes | WCYB