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.
-
Big Lots files for bankruptcy, says more stores could close
Citing inflation and high interest rates, Big Lots announced it is undergoing bankruptcy, potentially causing the retailer to close more locations.Richardson shows off strong arm but lacks consistency in Colts' loss to Texans
Quarterback Anthony Richardson showed everyone what the Indianapolis Colts learned while drafting him1 hospitalized after northeast side fire
One man was transported to a local hospital for burn evaluation this morning after a fire broke out at a home in the 8300 block of Aspen Court. This is near 42nd Street and Franklin Road.Advocates remind Hoosiers of free resources during Suicide Prevention Month
The state of Indiana has had over 1,000 people die from suicide each year since 2016. It’s something the state’s American Foundation for Suicide Prevention chapter is looking to change.