Tucson, AZ— The U.S. Department of Justice has awarded $7.5 million to the Arizona Department of Public Safety to enhance victims’ services. The grant awards funds from the Crime Victim Fund, which will be used to support organizations that provide essential services to victims such as crisis intervention, emergency shelter, and counseling.

“While it is unfortunate that citizens of Arizona continue to be victims of crime, it is critical that they continue have access to the necessary assistance in these times, said Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva. “This grant is beneficial because enables us to continue to provide such services for the public.”

The Crime Victims Fund was established by the 1984 Victims of Crime Act (VOCA). The funds are awarded to States who then distribute them to local organizations that provide victim services.