INDIANAPOLIS — According to IMPD, there are 33 unsolved homicides so far this year.
A witness coming forward could be the answer to solving those crimes, but sometimes witnesses are scared to do so.
That’s where the Victim Witness Assistance Program comes in.
"It truly is up to the individual in terms of what happens needs to happen,” said Carlette Duffy the Deputy Director of Program Management at the Office of Public Health and Science. “Sometimes that's immediate removal from the situation."
Before the Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) can help a person, who has sensitive information, they first must talk to the detective on the case. If the detective determines the witness’s life is in danger, VWAP acts.
“When we get put into gear our focus is just on safety," Duffy said.
Falisha Walker knows how it feels to want answers about a case. Her son William Walker was murdered in 2019 at a strip club that is now shut down. If not for security footage from the club and a witness that came forward, she's not sure her son’s killer would be behind bars.
"My pain still hurts,” Walker said. “I still struggle daily, and my son’s killer is arrested and doing time, but I feel no different. But the fact that I know he can't hurt your family, or someone else’s family brings me a little bit of joy. "
That’s why she and the VWAP encourage people to come forward.
"When it's something that you've seen or you've heard that it is just pressing on you, it’s our civic duty to get involved," Duffy said.
According to VWAP, if you work with them, make sure you don't talk about it with others. Your safety depends on it.
If you are a witness of a crime but are concerned the information you know could threaten your life, call the witness assistance program at 317-327-3331.
-
Firestone remains Indycar's tire supplier under Bridgestone and Penske deal
Firestone will continue as the only tire supplier for all IndyCar racing under a long-term extension between Bridgestone America and Penske EntertainmentFormer Wisconsin star Jonathan Taylor eager to make his Lambeau Field debut
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor circled this week’s game as soon as the 2024 schedule came outNo. 18 Notre Dame tries to rebound when it renews longtime rivalry at Purdue
The defensive roots of Purdue coach Ryan Walters have been on full display over the last 13 games, with the Boilermakers recording 38 sacks and using the pass rush to force opponents into mistakes.Big Ten kicks off nationwide era when UCLA hosts Indiana at the Rose Bowl
The Big Ten kicks off a new era as a nationwide 18-team conference when the Bruins welcome the Hoosiers.