MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

November 4, 2024

Baltimore, MD – The Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center, Inc. (MCVRC), a non-profit organization dedicated to ensuring crime victims receive justice and are treated with dignity and compassion, is honored to announce the generous donation of four burial plots at Lorraine Park Cemetery. 

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to William and Jean Tighe and Yancy Seitz for their generous donations of burial plots. This thoughtful contribution will directly support MCVRC in its mission to assist victims and their families during some of the most challenging times in their lives. The burial plots will be made available to families of crime victims who are facing the burdens of grief and loss, offering them peace of mind during an incredibly difficult period. 

Jean Tighe expressed her hope that this donation will bring comfort to those in mourning, stating, “I am glad our donation will help the families of the victims.” This gesture exemplifies the compassion and generosity that exists within our community. 

MCVRC remains committed to offering services to crime victims, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance and resources to navigate their challenges. By providing a place of rest for victims, MCVRC not only honors their memories but also helps families find solace amid their sorrow. MCVRC is proud to continue the original mission of the Stephanie Roper Committee and Foundation, which was founded by Vincent and Roberta Roper in honor of their daughter, Stephanie, who was brutally murdered in 1982. Their hope and prayer starting the Stephanie Roper Committee and then MCVRC is that other families suffering the unfathomable loss of a family member through homicide would be supported each step of the way. This gift of burial plots helps MCVRC fulfill this mission. 

For more information about MCVRC and how you can help, please visit www.mdcrimevictims.org. If you are interested in donating burial plots, funds, or other resources, please contact: Jennifer Abell, Chief Finance & Operations Officer, at Jabell@mdcrimevictims.org 

Media Contact: Casey Rosil 

Communications and Media Specialist 

240-335-4031  crosil@mdcrimevictims.org 

MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

A POWERFUL EVENING ADVOCATING FOR VICTIMS’ RIGHTS; RAISES VITAL FUNDS FOR VICTIMS’ RIGHTS ORGANIZATION

A POWERFUL EVENING ADVOCATING FOR VICTIMS’ RIGHTS; RAISES VITAL FUNDS FOR VICTIMS’ RIGHTS ORGANIZATION

October 7, 2024

ANNAPOLIS, MD – On Saturday, award winning journalist and news anchor, Shawn Yancy joined her dear friend, CEO and survivor, Joy Kingsley-Ibeh in hosting Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center’s (MCVRC) Victims’ Rights Gala: How Would You Help? – an impactful evening focused on raising awareness and support for victims’ rights.

The evening was filled with a community playing their role to help victims – whether it be sharing their personal story, receiving information about an array of victims’ rights topics, or just actively supporting our organization to help advance victims’ rights. Together, the community celebrated not only the progress made in supporting victims but also the work that lies ahead.

Pictured left to right (Joy Kingsley-Ibeh and Shawn Yancy)

Joy Kingsley-Ibeh shared her family’s journey marked by the tragic loss of her father and brother to crime – 12 years apart. Together, Yancy and Kingsley-Ibeh guided the evening, celebrating the spirit of resilience and justice that defines the Victims’ Rights Gala.

The event also honored winners of the Roberta Roper Lifetime Achievement Award — honoring individuals who have spent their lives dedicated to fighting for crime victims. This year’s recipients of the prestigious award were Congressman Glenn Ivey, Filmmaker Ryan White, and Lobbyist Gerald E. Evans, each honored for their own exceptional roles in forwarding victims’ rights.

Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center, Inc. would like to extend its gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, and supporters who made this year’s gala a success.

Pictured left to right (Prince George’s County Council, Chair, Jolene Ivey, Congressman Glenn Ivey, Founder of MCVRC, Roberta Roper, and Lobbyist, Gerald E. Evans)

 

Thank you to those who sponsored our event: Crescent Cities Charities; Evans & Associates; Jenner Law; the Cordero/Pracht families in Memory of Al & Helen Cordero; the Mupanduki Family; Stanford Heisler Sharp, LLP, and Trollinger Law.

“We are excited to share that we are SO CLOSE to reaching our fundraising goal of $84,000! We welcome any additional contributions HERE if anyone would like to donate. These donations help to fund activities and programs that are not currently covered by grant funds.” – Kurt Wolfgang, Executive Director

MCVRC is already planning its 2025 Victims’ Right Gala. Next year’s event promises to be an inspiring celebration of resilience, advocacy, and hope. To learn more about our organization, or become a sponsor, please contact Sandra Sanna-Buckles a ssannabuckles@mdcrimevictims.or or call/text to 240-335-4037

About Maryland Crime Victims’ Rights Center, Inc.

Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center Inc. ensures victims of crime receive justice and are treated with dignity and compassion through comprehensive victims’ rights and services. MCVRC is a grassroots non-profit organization that became a statewide organization dedicated to serving the interest of crime victims throughout Maryland. MCVRC is the longest running and largest legal clinic serving victims of all crimes in this country. MCVRC attorneys have argued in the State, Federal and the Supreme Court on victim right’s issues which have resulted in major legal victories.

Media Contact: Casey Rosil

Communications and Media Specialist

240-335-4031

crosil@mdcrimevictims.org

MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

Glenn Ivey to Receive Roberta Roper Lifetime Achievement Award at Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Centers’ Victims’ Rights Gala

September 13, 2024

Annapolis, MD – Glenn Ivey, U.S. House of Representative for Maryland’s Fourth Congressional District, will be honored with the prestigious Roberta Roper Lifetime Achievement Award at the upcoming Victims’ Rights Gala on October 5th, 2024. The award recognizes Congressman Ivey’s longstanding commitment to justice and advocacy on behalf of crime victims. The Victims’ Rights Gala, hosted by the Maryland Crime Victims Resource Center, celebrates individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to advancing victims’ rights and improving the justice system. This year’s event will take place on October 5th, 2024, at Crowne Plaza Annapolis.

Ivey’s distinguished career spans over three decades of service in both the public and private sectors. His public service includes serving as the State’s Attorney for Prince George’s County, and in his current role as a member of Congress, which has continued his dedication to advocating for justice and reform.

For more information about the Victims’ Rights Gala, including ticket purchases and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sandra Sanna-Buckles at ssannabuckles@mdcrimevictims.org or call/text 240-335-4037
Get your tickets today and join us in this vital effort. Together, we can drive change and support the rights of victims.

About Maryland Crime Victims’ Rights Center, Inc.

Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center Inc. ensures victims of crime receive justice and are treated with dignity and compassion through comprehensive victims’ rights and services. MCVRC is a grassroots non-profit organization that became a statewide organization dedicated to serving the interest of crime victims throughout Maryland. MCVRC is the longest running and largest legal clinic serving victims of all crimes in this country. MCVRC attorneys have argued in the State, Federal and the Supreme Court on victim right’s issues which have resulted in major legal victories.

Contact:

Casey Rosil

crosil@mdcrimevictims.org

240-335-4031

 

MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

Gerard E. Evans to Receive Roberta Roper Lifetime Achievement Award at Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Centers’ Victims’ Rights Gala 

September 11, 2024

Annapolis, MD –Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center (MCVRC) is thrilled to announce Gerard E. Evans will be honored with the prestigious Roberta Roper Lifetime Achievement Award at the Annual Victims’ Rights Gala on October 5th at the Crowne Plaza Annapolis. This esteemed award will recognize Evans for his exceptional contributions to law, education, and advocacy throughout his distinguished career. 

Established during MCVRC’s 40th anniversary in 2022, the Roberta Roper Lifetime Achievement Award honors individuals who have spent their lives dedicated to fighting for crime victims. This year, the award will be presented to Gerry Evans, a distinguished lobbyist and adjunct professor at the University of Maryland, College Park. 

Gerry Evans has been one of Annapolis’ top lobbyists for the past twenty-five years.  

A lawyer and lobbyist by trade, Evans has represented a wide range of clients in both capacities. Evans is active in many community and philanthropic causes, serving as a pro-bono lobbyist for some non-profit organizations, including MCVRC. His extensive advocacy work with MCVRC further highlights his unwavering commitment to public service and legislative progress. 

An Evening of Advocacy and Inspiration 

The Victims’ Rights Gala will be a powerful evening dedicated to raising awareness and support for victims’ rights. For more information about the Victims’ Rights Gala, including ticket purchases and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sandra Sanna-Buckles at ssannabuckles@mdcrimevictims.org or call/text 240-335-4037 

Get your tickets today and join us in this vital effort. Together, we can drive change and support the rights of victims. 

About Maryland Crime Victims’ Rights Center, Inc. 

Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center Inc. ensures victims of crime receive justice and are treated with dignity and compassion through comprehensive victims’ rights and services. MCVRC is a grassroots non-profit organization that became a statewide organization dedicated to serving the interest of crime victims throughout Maryland. MCVRC is the longest running and largest legal clinic serving victims of all crimes in this country. MCVRC attorneys have argued in the State, Federal and the Supreme Court on victim right’s issues which have resulted in major legal victories. 

Contact: Casey Rosil 

Communications and Media Specialist 

240-335-4031  

crosil@mdcrimevictims.org 

MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

Adnan Syed’s legal fight is far from over as Maryland Supreme Court Reinstates his Murder Conviction

August 30, 2024

Baltimore, MD – In a sweeping, historic, and brilliant decision, the Supreme Court of Maryland has simultaneously vindicated the rights of Young Lee and his family, but also struck an enormous blow on behalf of all crime victims of Maryland. The effects of this blanket of common sense that the Court threw over a firestorm of assaults on the rights of victims will be widely quoted, even by the Courts of other states as they consider similar insults imposed on the rights of crime victims.  

In this case, the Supreme Court of Maryland gets it. Crime Victims must be given an opportunity to be heard, and it must reasonable. Courts can no longer rush cases through court before victims can make the trip and arrange their schedules to attend. The Supreme Court of Maryland artfully defined the interplay between Maryland’s Victims’ Rights Amendment to its Constitution and the relevant protecting statutes that were enacted at the behest of Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center and its allies.  The following simple concepts were established: 

 

  1. Where a victim is entitled to notice, that notice must be meaningful and timely, so as to not adversely affect the rights of the victim to participate in the proceedings. 
  1. Even where a statute is silent regarding the right of a victim to be heard, other factors must be considered to determine whether it is practicable to allow the victim to be heard.  
  1. Once the victims’ rights enumerated in Maryland’s Constitution are implemented in statute, they cannot be undone by legislation to repeal those rights. Instead, any effort to repeal those rights would require further amendment to Maryland’s Constitution. 

 

When this violation of the Lee Family’s rights of victims occurred, I made this observation: the decision of the Appellate courts would define whether the rights for which we have fought for forty-two years merely exist as paper promises, or as true human rights. This Supreme Court of Maryland has honored their oaths and followed the desires of the people of the State of Maryland, who voted with ninety-two-point four percent in favor of the Victims’ Rights Amendment. In this era where government often seems out of touch with the will of the citizens, this decision should give Marylanders a warm feeling that the Courts of Maryland have acknowledged the mandate of the people – who in democracy are the true sovereign leaders. 

 

We sincerely thank the Court for their brilliance and attention to detail in this complex matter.  

 

About Maryland Crime Victims’ Rights Center, Inc. 

Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center Inc. ensures victims of crime receive justice and are treated with dignity and compassion through comprehensive victims’ rights and services. MCVRC is a grassroots non-profit organization that became a statewide organization dedicated to serving the interest of crime victims throughout Maryland. MCVRC is the longest running and largest legal clinic serving victims of all crimes in this country. MCVRC attorneys have argued in State, Federal and the Supreme Court on victim rights issues which have resulted in major legal victories.  

 

Contact: Casey Rosil 

Communications and Media Specialist 

240-335-4031  

crosil@mdcrimevictims.org 

MARYLAND CRIME VICTIMS’ RESOURCE CENTER, INC. RECEIVES GENEROUS DONATION OF 4 BURIAL PLOTS AT LORRAINE PARK CEMETERY  

Shawn Yancy and Joy Kingsley-Ibeh to Co-Emcee Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center, Inc. Victims’ Rights Gala

Annapolis, MD – Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center, Inc. is proud to announce distinguished journalist, Shawn Yancy and resilient entrepreneur, Joy Kingsley-Ibeh will co-emcee the upcoming Victims’ Rights Gala. This impactful event, scheduled for October 5, 2024, at Crowne Plaza Annapolis, aims to champion victims’ rights and support those affected by violence and crime. 

 

Shawn Yancy: A Leading Voice in Journalism and Community Advocacy 

Shawn Yancy, anchor of News4 at 5 and News4 at 11 for NBC4, is renowned for her exceptional journalism and commitment to uncovering the truth. Since joining NBC4 in 2021, Yancy has earned multiple EMMY Awards and an Edward R. Murrow Award for her investigative work on asbestos issues at the National Institutes of Health. Her extensive career, including 19 years at WTTG-TV, is a testament to her dedication to community and justice. 

Yancy’s involvement in various charitable causes shows her personal commitment to supporting underserved populations and reflects the spirit of advocacy the Victims’ Rights Gala represents. 

 


Joy Kingsley-Ibeh: A Survivor’s Strength and Advocacy
 

Joy Kingsley-Ibeh, a successful entrepreneur and advocate, brings a profound personal connection to the Victims’ Rights Gala. As the founder of Style by Kingsley and Kingsley Model + Talent Management, Kingsley-Ibeh has triumphed over significant personal loss to become a leading figure in fashion and talent management. 

Her story is deeply intertwined with the mission of the gala. Kingsley-Ibeh’s journey from Nigeria to the U.S. includes a heartbreaking chapter marked by the murder of her father and brother, which has profoundly shaped her life and work. These devastating losses have fueled her commitment to advocating for victims and supporting those facing similar challenges. 

Kingsley-Ibeh’s resilience in the face of such personal tragedy and her success in the fashion industry exemplify the strength and advocacy the Victims’ Rights Gala seeks to honor. Her experience brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the event, reinforcing the importance of supporting victims and promoting justice. 

An Evening of Advocacy and Inspiration 

The Victims’ Rights Gala, with Shawn Yancy and Joy Kingsley-Ibeh as co-emcees, will be a powerful evening dedicated to raising awareness and support for victims’ rights. For more information about the Victims’ Rights Gala, including ticket purchases and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sandra Sanna-Buckles at ssannabuckles@mdcrimevictims.org or call/text 240-335-4037 

Get your tickets today and join us in this vital effort. Together, we can drive change and support the rights of victims. 

About Maryland Crime Victims’ Rights Center, Inc. 

Maryland Crime Victims’ Resource Center Inc. ensures victims of crime receive justice and are treated with dignity and compassion through comprehensive victims’ rights and services. MCVRC is a grassroots non-profit organization that became a statewide organization dedicated to serving the interest of crime victims throughout Maryland. MCVRC is the longest running and largest legal clinic serving victims of all crimes in this country. MCVRC attorneys have argued in State, Federal and the Supreme Court on victim rights issues which have resulted in major legal victories. 

 

Contact: Casey Rosil 

Communications and Media Specialist 

240-335-4031  

crosil@mdcrimevictims.org 

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