Douglas County Silhouette Event to Raises Awareness of Crime Victims’ Rights

Madison, WI - Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, in partnership with Douglas County District Attorney Mark Fruehauf, held an event Tuesday to raise awareness about the rights available to crime victims in Wisconsin through a compelling display of silhouettes at the Douglas County Courthouse.

Attendees encountered an interactive showcase of red-painted silhouettes symbolizing individuals affected by crime. Each silhouette featured one of the rights granted by Wisconsin's Crime Victims' Rights constitutional amendment, also known as Marsy's Law. Additionally, the silhouettes were equipped with QR codes linking individuals to the websites for Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, local victim service provider the Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse (CASDA), and the Wisconsin Office of Crime Victims’ Services for further information.

Nela Kalpic, State Director of Marsy’s Law for Wisconsin, stated, “The silhouette exhibit sheds light on the experiences of crime victims and survivors – often our neighbors, coworkers, or acquaintances. Through this display, we hope to raise awareness about the rights protected under Marsy’s Law and the support services offered by the District Attorney’s office and providers like the Center Against Sexual and Domestic Abuse.”

“As the Douglas County District Attorney, my team and I are committed to ensuring crime victims receive the dignity they deserve, which our state constitution requires,” said Mark Fruehauf, the district attorney of Douglas County. “The silhouette display aimed to educate the public about their rights under Marsy's Law and the victim services our office and community can provide to people facing a difficult time.”

The silhouettes were placed inside the Douglas County Courthouse. Each silhouette displayed a specific right from Marsy’s Law, written in language easily understood by victims who might not have had prior engagement with the criminal justice system. Marsy’s Law rights highlighted on the silhouettes included: right to privacy, right to notice, right to confer, right to be present, right to be heard, right to know your rights, right to restitution, and right to enforce your rights.

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