Supporting Crime Victims

As a prosecutor, Rob fought for crime victims and worked on their behalf to bring criminals to justice. In the Virginia General Assembly, Rob has repeatedly written bills to protect survivors of crime. These bills:

•Prevent the secret videotaping of children (HB 663 – 2004)

•Allow judges to require drunk drivers to repay the medical and funeral expenses of their victims (HB 2008 – 2003)

•Increase penalties for those who sexually abuse the mentally infirm or physically helpless (HB 660 – 2004)

•Expand protective orders law (HB 2063 – 2011)

Rob has been repeatedly recognized for his work:

Virginians Aligned Against Sexual Assault – 2002 “Vanguard Special Commendation”
MADD (Virginia) – 2004 “Outstanding Leadership”
MADD (Virginia) – 2005 “Outstanding Legislator Award”
Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance – 2009 “Act, Honor, Hope”
Virginia Association of Commonwealth’s Attorneys – 2011 “Champion of Justice”

"I am a survivor of domestic violence. When Rob Bell was a prosecutor, he gave me his home phone number to call any time I needed help. If he had not helped me, I’m not sure if I’d be alive today. Rob has been an advocate on behalf of domestic violence victims. I know. He was my friend when no one else was, and he was my hero."

-- Name withheld