ATTORNEY GENERAL ERIC HOLDER HONORS MICHIGAN MAN AND ANNOUNCES $1.5 MILLION IN RECOVERY ACT FUNDS FOR STATE

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. announced today that the Department of Justice is awarding more than $1.5 million in Recovery Act formula grants for Michigan state victim assistance and victim compensation programs. The Attorney General made the announcement in his remarks at the National Crime Victims' Rights Week Awards Ceremony where he also recognized William Van Regenmorter of Hudsonville, Mich., for his efforts on behalf of crime victims. The ceremony is a prelude to the nation's observance of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 26-May 2, 2009.

"We all owe a debt to these honorees and to the countless other advocates across the country who tirelessly work to protect victims' rights," Attorney General Eric Holder said. "The Department of Justice is committed to protecting victims' rights, which is why I'm so pleased we've been able to dedicate funds from the Recovery Act to assist these advocates in their invaluable work."

Mr. Van Regenmorter, a retired state legislator, is considered by many to be the "Father of Victims' Rights" in the state of Michigan. Mr. Van Regenmorter authored the Michigan Victims Bill of Rights Constitutional Amendment, which became law in 1988, as well as successive victim-related legislation. He also is the founder of the Michigan Crime Victim Foundation, which serves as a financial resource of last resort for victims who lack insurance or do not qualify for victim compensation.

In addition to Mr. Van Regenmorter, the Attorney General recognized nine other individuals and programs for their service to crime victims. More information about the Recovery Act Victim Assistance and Compensation formula grants and National Crime Victims' Rights Week is available at: ojp.gov.

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