Morris County Observes National Crime Victims’ Rights Week 2025

Annual Event Hosted by the Prosecutor’s Office Honors Advocacy Pioneer

The Morris County Board of County Commissioners today proclaimed April 6–12, 2025, as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, reaffirming the county’s longstanding commitment to supporting victims and their families.

Commissioner Director Tayfun Selen presented a proclamation to Morris County Prosecutor Robert J. Carroll during a ceremony hosted by the Prosecutor’s Office at the Administration and Records Building in Morristown.

The event also honored the late Sandra McGowan, a founding member of the Morris County Prosecutor’s Office Victim/Witness Advocacy Unit, who died in December 2024. Director Selen presented a framed resolution of honor on behalf of the commissioners to McGowan’s daughter, Kellie McGowan. She also received commendations from Prosecutor Carroll, Sheriff James M. Gannon and State Sen. Anthony M. Bucco.

View More Photos from the Ceremony

Now in its 44th year, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week raises awareness of victims’ rights and services while recognizing progress made through programs, policies and partnerships. The 2025 theme, “Kinship: Connection and Healing,” emphasizes the role of collective action in promoting healing and recovery.

“Morris County has long been a leader in the fight for victims’ rights,” said Director Selen. “From early advocacy for federal protections to establishing community services such as Deirdre’s House, we remain committed to upholding justice and providing support for those affected by crime.”

“This year’s theme asks all of us: How can we connect with victims who are often dealing with the worst day of their lives? How can we help lessen their trauma and distress while also honoring the dual duty of assisting victims and helping law enforcement bring the evildoer or predator who caused the pain to justice?” Prosecutor Carroll said. “This critically important service requires dedicated victim-witness professionals who tirelessly bridge those duties to help crime victims through such challenges.”

McGowan joined the Prosecutor’s Office in 1985, where she served for two decades. She was instrumental in establishing Deirdre’s House in 1996, led volunteer outreach efforts after the 9/11 attacks, and served on the board of the National Organization for Victim Assistance. Her advocacy contributed to the 1991 New Jersey constitutional amendment that enshrined victims’ rights.

“Kelly, it’s an honor for me to recognize your mom today,” said Sen. Bucco. “The word that’s been used repeatedly today is ‘pioneer.’ When you think of a pioneer, you think of someone who forged a path without a roadmap -- just sheer courage. Your mother certainly fits that role. She, along with friends like the O’Briens, made it happen because the need was there. That’s powerful.”

Sheriff Gannon posthumously appointed McGowan as an Honorary Morris County Sheriff, a surprise announcement that served as a moving tribute to her enduring impact.

“Sandy’s legacy lives on in the programs and partnerships we’ve built to serve those in need. Her impact is still felt across Morris County to this very day,” said Sheriff Gannon, referencing programs such as Hope Hub and Community Connections that provide coordinated support for families in crisis.

Florham Park Police Chief Joseph J. Orlando, vice president of the Morris County Police Chiefs Association, who delivered the keynote address, also shared a personal reflection.

“I remember when I was with the Prosecutor’s Office as a student at Fairleigh Dickinson University. There were two small cubicles marked “Victim Witness.” Inside were Sandy McGowan and Trish Stewart-- two women who set the standard for victim advocacy long before it was a statewide priority. The fact we are here today discussing this work is a testament to their legacy,” said Chief Orlando.

Maria Vinci Savettiere, executive director of Deirdre’s House, provided closing remarks, sharing a powerful story about a child victim who testified in a recent trial, supported by a community of advocates, clinicians and prosecutors.

“A courtroom filled with supporters formed an impenetrable shield around her. She stood up, faced her abuser and spoke her truth so clearly it couldn’t be denied. That moment was justice in real time. When the collective strength of a caring community gives light and power to truth, that overcomes evil and darkness,” said Savettiere.

To honor victims, a commemorative wreath with a ribbon reading “2025 in Recognition and Remembrance” was placed beside a tree outside the Administration and Records Building, which is being illuminated with a string of bright lights throughout the week in observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. Following the ceremony, attendees gathered at the tree and were invited to an open house luncheon at Deirdre’s House.

The Morris County Office of Victim Witness Advocacy was established in 1982 to provide advocacy, case information and social service assistance to crime victims and witnesses. The unit includes trained victim counselors to aid individuals facing challenges created by victimization.

In 2024, the Prosecutor’s Office launched a public awareness campaign to promote available support services. In partnership with the Main Library Alliance, the office designed informational bookmarks, now distributed at libraries throughout the county -- spaces that often serve as safe havens for individuals in crisis.