Bedford Victim/Witness Program

Bedford Victim/Witness Program The Bedford Victim/Witness program provides advocacy, support and resources for crime victims. Here to inform, empower and stand with you. You are not alone.

06/02/2026

Pride began as a call for visibility, dignity, and justice. Those values continue to guide the work of victim advocacy today.

This month, we honor LGBTQIA+ survivors and advocates whose leadership and courage help create stronger, more compassionate communities.

We celebrate the progress made while recognizing that equity, safety, and belonging require continued action!

06/02/2026

Yesterday, in yet another domestic related shooting, two Chesterfield County Police officers were injured and police K-9, Knight, lost his life. We send our deepest condolences to the Chesterfield County Police department. Our thoughts are also with the two injured officers as we wish them complete and quick recoveries.

For generations, domestic violence has often been treated as a "private family matter"—something to be dealt with behind closed doors. However, sociological, economic, and public safety data have proven that domestic violence is a profound societal crisis.

When a home is unsafe, the ripples are felt across schools, workplaces, healthcare systems, and public spaces.

There is a deep, documented connection between domestic abuse and broader public safety. A significant percentage of mass shootings and acts of public violence are perpetrated by individuals who have a history of domestic abuse or who target an intimate partner or family member first. What begins as a volatile, intimate relationship frequently spills over, endangering bystanders, neighbors, co-workers and first responders.

Because domestic violence is a systemic issue, it cannot be solved solely by law enforcement or the victims themselves. Eliminating it requires a collective shift in culture, policy, and individual behavior. We all have a responsibility.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Call or text VVAN's Victim Assist Helpline to reach an advocate at 1-855-4-HELP-VA (855-443-5782)

OR contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline by calling 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or texting "START" to 88788. Both are and confidential.

06/02/2026

Our thoughts are with the community of Virginia Beach following the disheartening and tragic shooting involving two Navy service members on Sunday, May 31 that claimed yet another life.

Domestic violence is often misunderstood as an issue that only affects specific segments of the population. In reality, it crosses every demographic line—regardless of age, socioeconomic status, profession, religion, or cultural background. Abuse is fundamentally about power and control, not external circumstances. Because power dynamics exist in every human dynamic, domestic violence can manifest anywhere.

Intimate partner violence in military relationships carries unique complexities. High-stress environments, combat-related trauma (such as PTSD), frequent relocations, and a rigid chain-of-command culture can complicate both the abuse and the reporting process. Victims often fear reporting abuse because doing so could jeopardize their or their significant other’s military career, which most rely on for housing, healthcare, and income.

We cannot continue to look away or treat these tragedies as inevitable. As a society, we have a collective responsibility to believe survivors, recognize the warning signs early, and dismantle the systems that allow abusers to escalate to mass violence. True change starts when we pull this issue out from the shadows and work together for systemic change.

This (May 10-16, 2026), we want to take a moment to honor the dedicated officers who serve and protect the town of Bed...
05/13/2026

This (May 10-16, 2026), we want to take a moment to honor the dedicated officers who serve and protect the town of Bedford and Bedford County. Our Victim/Witness Assistance staff works closely with law enforcement, and we see first hand the dedication, compassion, and courage these men and women bring to their work every day. They are often the first to arrive during the most challenging moments of a victim's life, providing safety, security, and a reassuring presence. We thank you for your service over self.💙 We also pause to honor the fallen officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and we stand with their families and colleagues in memory. Bedford County Sheriff's Office VA Bedford VA Police Department

05/01/2026

This training is designed for victim advocates, prosecutors, and allied professionals to stay ahead of the evolving legal landscape in Virginia. By understanding the "forecast," advocates are better equipped to provide informed support, ensure compliance with new mandates, and advocate for sustainable funding and systemic improvements for victims of crime.

⭐More information and registration details coming soon!⭐

05/01/2026

We extend our deepest gratitude to Governor Abigail Spanberger for her leadership and commitment to addressing domestic violence across the Commonwealth.

By ordering the United States and Virginia flags to be flown at half-staff on Monday, May 4, the Governor honors the memory of Dr. Cerina Wanzer Fairfax and all those whose lives have been tragically affected by domestic abuse.

This powerful gesture serves as a reminder that we must continue to work together to support survivors and advocate for a future free from violence.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it is important to discuss the significant impact on mental health that being a...
04/30/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and it is important to discuss the significant impact on mental health that being a victim of crime or a family member of a victim can have and the importance of recognizing this impact.

Psychological Effects: Fear, helplessness, anger, depression, anxiety, and shame are common.

PTSD and Long-Term Trauma: Victims of violent crime may develop post-traumatic stress disorder, experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, and constant emotional/physical distress.

Behavioral Shifts: Victims may struggle with social isolation, mistrust of others, and difficulty with daily routines.
Impact on Youth: Children who experience trauma may require specialized, school-based mental health support,

Experiencing a crime leaves more than just physical or financial damage—it creates emotional wounds that often take far ...
04/29/2026

Experiencing a crime leaves more than just physical or financial damage—it creates emotional wounds that often take far longer to heal. Crime survivors frequently grapple with fear, anxiety, shame, and grief. These reactions are natural but can develop into long-term mental health issues if left unaddressed. Victimology, the study of victims and their experiences, provides crucial insights into these effects. When paired with trauma-informed care, it helps professionals respond to survivors with empathy and clinical effectiveness. Supporting crime victims’ mental health means more than providing therapy; it requires understanding their stories, validating their pain, and equipping them to rebuild their lives.

Address

123 E. Main Street
Bedford, VA
24523

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+15405867628

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Bedford Victim/Witness Program posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Bedford Victim/Witness Program:

Shortcuts

Share

Category