Bristol Virginia Victim/Witness Assistance Program

These words stay with us.

As victim advocates, we often wish we could fix everything. We wish we could erase trauma, undo violence, provide every answer, and make the pain disappear overnight. But the truth is, sometimes the most powerful thing we can offer is simply our presence.

To listen without judgment.
To sit with someone in their hardest moment.
To remind them they are not alone.
To believe them.
To let them cry.

There isn’t always a perfect solution. Healing is not linear, and crises do not come with easy answers. But showing compassion, patience, and humanity matters more than we sometimes realize.

This is Why We Do What We Do (WWDWWD).

Because every person deserves to be heard.
Every survivor deserves dignity.
And sometimes, being a safe voice in the dark is the beginning of hope.



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Our National Crime Victims' Rights Week newsletter features compelling information, helpful tools and resources, including....

- program news from Victims' Services Manager, Kristina Vadas
- helpful crime victims and witness rights resources
- the latest victims' advocacy trainings
- research on observed trends in violent crime
- Virginia Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act E-learning Module

https://myemail.constantcontact.com/National-Crime-Victims--Rights-Week.html?soid=1134909022327&aid=KrzdFYbnevY

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, learn more about DCJS's programs and resources to support victims of sexual assault and other crimes. https://www.dcjs.virginia.gov/victims-services

Today the City of Bristol Virginia Victim/Witness Assistance Program honored two criminal justice professionals who have demonstrated exemplary dedication and an unwavering commitment to supporting victims. Next week begins National Crime Victims Rights Week. We are proud to participate by presenting these awards. The theme this year is “Listen. Act. Advocate.” The two recipients truly embody that theme.

🏆The Victim Services Award for Domestic Violence was presented to Detective Seth Jones. He is the V-STOP detective for BRISTOL VIRGINIA POLICE DEPARTMENT. He works tirelessly to specifically investigate cases involving violence against women and domestic violence. His dedication and compassion provide hope not only to victims, but our community as a whole.

🏆The Victim Services Award for Child Abuse was presented to Kathryn Roark. She has served as the Director of the Children's Advocacy Center of Highlands Community Services for over twenty years. Her work within our community for child abuse victims through her servant leadership has produced lasting, impactful change.

🚨 Join Us for the Upcoming TRIAD Meeting 🚨

The Virginia TRIAD program focused on reducing crime against older adults is bringing together local partners to strengthen safety and community collaboration across Bristol.

We’re proud to partner with:
👮 Bristol Virginia Police Department
🚔 Bristol Virginia Sheriff’s Office
🚒 Bristol Virginia Fire Department
⚖️ Bristol Virginia Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office
🏛️ City of Bristol, Virginia
⚖️ Virginia Office of the Attorney General

This meeting is a great opportunity to:
✔️ Share information on scams and fraud targeting seniors
✔️ Strengthen partnerships between law enforcement and the community
✔️ Learn prevention strategies to keep our elderly population safe

Together, we can make a difference in protecting our seniors and building a safer community.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month 💙

Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and protected. This month, we join together to raise awareness, support families, and help build brighter futures for children in our community.

Prevention starts with all of us. By working together, we can create safe, supportive environments where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

FUGITIVE FRIDAY UPDATE

The Bristol, Virginia Police Department would like to thank our community for your assistance following our recent Fugitive Friday post.

On March 25, 2026, the Bristol VA Police Department’s Warrants Unit, with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Kingsport Police Department, successfully located and apprehended Dale Goodson.

Goodson was wanted on multiple felony charges, including abduction, strangulation, malicious wounding, and assault and battery on a family or household member, stemming from an incident in December 2025. He is currently awaiting extradition from Tennessee.

We appreciate everyone who shared information and submitted tips. Your cooperation plays a vital role in helping us keep our community safe.

👮‍♂️ Thank you for your continued support.