Fifth Annual Victims’ Rights March in Santa Cruz

Dozens of people gathered in Santa Cruz County for the Fifth Annual Victims’ Rights March Wednesday. It was an emotional day for families who came together to remember tragedy.

“My son Carl Tom Reimer was murdered April 24th, 2010 in Santa Cruz County,” said Joann Tennent.

Tennent said her son was 19 years old when he was shot and killed.

“My son was my only child, so it was just really hard and tragic,” said Tennent.

For the last five years the Santa Cruz County District Attorney’s Office has hosted the Victims’ Rights March. The event was started by former District Attorney Bob Lee and it’s held as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

“Essentially what we are doing is trying to raise awareness for victims of crime in our community. (We want to) raise awareness that it exists and raise awareness that we need to make some progress into the future for them,” said District Attorney Jeff Rosell.

The event starts at the courthouse with a rally and then a march to city hall, all while carrying signs remembering lost loved ones.

“I do think that there is a certain sense of healing and a sense of community that takes place when people get together and recognize and honor victims of crime,” said Rosell.

Tennent said the march helps her every year to keep the memory of her son fresh in her mind.

“The reason why I come is because of the support everyone has for each other and we get to check in with everyone’s cases. You really see a lot of healing,” said Tennent.