DOJ Cancels Grants for Victim Services, Then Restores Some | The Epoch Times

Key Actions by the Department of Justice (DOJ)

The Department of Justice (DOJ) initially cancelled numerous grants for victim services and other programs, citing a change in agency priorities to focus on law enforcement operations, combating violent crime, and protecting children. The justification was that these grants no longer aligned with the administration's priorities.

Grants Restored

However, the DOJ later reinstated seven of the cancelled grants, including those for The National Center for Victims of Crime (supporting crime victim hotlines) and the National Network to End Domestic Violence. The DOJ asserted that the cuts were consistent with administrative priorities while still protecting services impacting victims.

Grants Remaining Cancelled

Several other grants remained cancelled. These included grants to:

• The Vera Institute of Justice (focused on prison environments and diversion programs).
• Activating Change (supporting domestic violence victims with disabilities).
• The Latino Coalition for Community Leadership (working with formerly incarcerated individuals).
• The Central Iowa Trauma Recovery Center.

The DOJ official stated that Activating Change's cuts would remain in place due to its affiliation with the Vera Institute of Justice, which had publicly opposed certain administration actions.

Reactions to Funding Cuts

The National Center for Victims of Crime, after its initial funding cut, highlighted the importance of its services, noting the assistance provided to over 16,000 people in 2024. The Vera Institute of Justice criticized the administration's actions, stating that it was "turning its back on safety, justice, and the most marginalized."