Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 04/20/07

Contact person(s):

Media Coordinator, Donna Edwards - 565-3099 Media Spokesperson, Assistant District Attorney Christine Cook

Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California

DA TO HOST LUNCHEON HONORING CAROLE AND FRANCIS CARRINGTON DURING NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS’ RIGHTS WEEK

District Attorney Stephan Passalacqua announced today that during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 22nd through the 28th, he will gather with other community leaders to honor crime victims and increase public awareness about the challenges they face. For the fourth year, he is observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week by working with community leaders, law enforcement and service professionals to present several community events.

District Attorney Passalacqua said, "This week is a time to remember that each of us must strive to improve the treatment of crime victims for a safe and healthy community."

The fourth annual Crime Victims’ Rights Week Awards Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, April 25th at 12 p.m. at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek. Carole and Francis Carrington will be honored. Carole Carrington is the featured speaker. We all remember with sadness the tragic murder of Carole and Juli Sund and Silvina Pelosso, who went missing on a sightseeing trip to Yosemite. The rewards offered by Francis and Carole Carrington during the search for information and the safe return of their daughter, granddaughter and friend helped solve the case and convict Cary Stayner. The Carringtons turned their own unspeakable tragedy into hope for others by establishing the Carole Sund/Carrington Memorial Reward Foundation to help families in need offer rewards to help locate missing loved ones. In addition to honoring their compassion and generosity, awards will be presented at the luncheon to victims, service providers and agencies who have made a difference in our community this past year.

Additionally, two Candlelight Vigils will be held paying tribute to our community’s crime victims. The Santa Rosa Vigil is at Old Railroad Square on Wednesday, April 25th at 6:00 p.m.; and the Sonoma Vigil is at La Luz Center on Thursday, April 26th at 5:30 p.m. Families, friends, and community members will read the names of loved ones victimized by crime and contribute to a remembrance display. Call the Victim Assistance Center at 565-8250 for details or with the name of a loved one.

Please join the District Attorney’s Office and our distinguished partners in observing this important week by participating in one or more of these special events. All are welcome. The cost of the luncheon is $30. Please RSVP to the Victim Assistance Center at 565-8250. The Candlelight Vigils are free.