FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Erin Maloney, Communications Director
Office of the State Attorney, 13th Judicial Circuit
(813) 557-3366 | [email protected]
TAMPA, FL (April 7, 2025) — State Attorney Suzy Lopez has launched a new online Victim Toolkit designed as a one-stop-shop for crime victims to find support, guidance, and essential services during their legal journey. The comprehensive resource can be found on our agency website at www.SAO13th.com/VictimToolkit. The exciting initiative kicks off National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which is observed this year from April 6-12.
The SAO 13 Victim Toolkit is designed to empower survivors and their families by providing easy access to resources such as counseling services, legal assistance, and compensation programs. It also provides information about what a crime victim can expect throughout the legal process, from connecting with a Victim Advocate to attending scheduled court hearings.
“This toolkit is more than just a collection of resources. It represents our commitment to standing with victims, fighting for their rights, and ensuring they never feel alone. By launching this tool during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we send a message to all victims: We see you, we hear you, and we are here to fight with you every step of the way,” said State Attorney Suzy Lopez.
The State Attorney’s Office is also holding its 2nd annual Victim Resource Fair this Wednesday, April 9th at the University of Tampa’s Vaughn Center from 5:30pm-7:30pm. Community partners will join our Victim Assistance Program team to offer crime victims resources in person during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
One of State Attorney Lopez’s top priorities is to ensure crime victims have the support they need during what can be a scary and confusing legal journey. She personally meets with every family who has lost a loved one to homicide, so they know who is fighting for them. State Attorney Lopez believes supporting survivors helps them to regain a sense of control and security, which is vital to their healing process.
State Attorney Lopez leads a team of talented prosecutors and professional staff who are responsible for all criminal prosecutions in the 13th Judicial Circuit. The State Attorney’s Office is committed to keeping the public informed about the outcomes of major court cases to ensure transparency and accountability. We believe it is of utmost importance for the public to understand how our justice system operates in order to build trust. To learn more about the outcome of cases prosecuted in our office, you can follow us on social media:
· Twitter: @HillsboroughSAO, @SuzyLopezSA
· Instagram: @HillsboroughStateAttorney
· Facebook: @HillsboroughSAO
About the State Attorney’s Office
The State Attorney’s Office of the 13th Judicial circuit encompasses all of Hillsborough County, including the cities of Tampa, Temple Terrace, and Plant City. The office staff consists of approximately 320 dedicated public servants including 130 prosecutors, as well as investigators, victim advocates, and support staff. The office handles approximately 50,000 cases every year. To learn more about the organization or apply to become part of the team, visit www.sao13th.com.