A new partnership announced May 21 will focus on the needs of crime victimes with disabilities. According to the National Council on Disability, the Council is teaming up with the Association of University Centers on disabilities, and the National Center for Victims of Crime to increase public awareness and to push for a national commitment to address the needs of disabled crime victims.

Though little reliable data is available, it is widely believed that persons with disabilities are victimized by crime much more frequently than the general population.

A joint statement from the partnering organizations calls for expanded research, public education, public policy changes, increased programs and services, and a national leadership forum that will serve as an active voice for crime victims with disabilities.

For more information, visit: http://www.ncd.gov/newsroom/news/2007/crime_victims.htm