A solemn group of more than 150 gathered Thursday night in downtown Nevada City for a candlelight vigil to honor victims and survivors of crime including child abuse and sexual assault.

"There is no such thing as a victimless crime," said Nevada County Superior Court Judge Tom Anderson in his opening speech to the crowd of mostly social workers, attorneys, therapists, volunteers victims' advocates and crime survivors. "The impact of any criminal act ripples throughout our community. Family, friends and relationships suffer."

One girl spoke briefly of being a victim of sexual abuse, but no victims were featured speakers.

Members from the Nevada Union Chamber Choir performed a few short songs and Nevada County Victim/Witness Assistance Coordinator Rod Gillespie asked for a moment of silence for victims. Nevada County Sheriff's Administrative Assistant Nancy Anderson - a survivor of sexual assault who keeps tabs on registered sex offenders for the sheriff's office - was on hand to show her support.

Nevada County District Attorney Cliff Newell, Assistant District Attorney Anna Ferguson and Deputy District Attorney Katye Francis also attended, holding candles to support victims' rights and looking at a photographic display of victims of violence.

Nick, Amanda and Nathaniel Wilcox were present to honor their daughter and sister Laura Wilcox, killed in the January 2001 shooting rampage and to support the work of Nevada County Victim/Witness.

Anderson praised the social servants and encouraged them to seize upon the opportunity to work with a receptive court in developing new and innovative ways to improve the lives of victims, particularly child victims.

"We need to expand our imaginations and reach out to all parents, no matter what income level, to assist, intervene and prevent causes of long-term trauma that happens in early childhood," he said.

Chuck Coovert, a volunteer court-appointed special advocate, spoke of his work with child abuse victims, adding that Child Advocates of Nevada County could always use more volunteers:

"The rewards are like little flashes of light in a little dark room and they can touch your heart," he said. "They are few and far between. It's the feeling you know you've made a difference."

Ron Mendleski, a member of Bikers Against Child Abuse, spoke of the importance of supporting the strength of child survivors.

"The only way to empower kids is through power and integrity," he said. "Show them they can stand tall and stand proud, and that it's not OK to hurt them."

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To contact Staff Writer Robyn Moormeister, e-mail robynm@theunion.com or call 477-4236.