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UNITED STATES ATTORNEY’S OFFICE OBSERVES NATIONAL CRIME VICTIMS’ RIGHTS WEEK
United States Attorney Mike Hurst announced the Southern District of Mississippi’s 2019 Crime Victims Service Awards recipients during a ceremony yesterday in Jackson
Jackson, Miss. – Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorneys’ offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorneys’ offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance is taking place April 7-13, with the theme: Honoring Our Past. Creating Hope for the Future.
“Victims of crime deserve justice. This Department works every day to help them recover and to find, prosecute, and convict those who have done them harm,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “During this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we pause to remember the millions of Americans who have been victims of crime and we thank public servants who have served them in especially heroic ways. This week the men and women of the Department recommit ourselves once again to ensuring that crime victims continue to have a voice in our legal system, to securing justice for them, and to preventing other Americans from suffering what they have endured.”
“We must never forget one of primary reasons we do this job – to seek justice for victims and their families. This week, we are honoring not only heroic victims who have stood up against those whom have harmed them, but also victim advocates and law enforcement professionals who make sure that our laws are enforced and our victims are protected. Our goal is to keep victims, their advocates, and law enforcement professionals at the forefront of our minds as we do the work of seeking justice for all,” said U.S. Attorney Mike Hurst.
U.S. Attorney Hurst presented the following awards during yesterday’s Crime Victims Service Awards Ceremony:
Victim Assistance Award – Federal Law Enforcement:
Molly Blythe, Special Agent, Federal Bureau of Investigation
This award recognizes a federal law enforcement agent who consistently displays top-quality investigative skills and sensitivity to the rights and needs of victims. Special Agent Blythe has demonstrated unwavering persistence and dependability during all phases of investigation and prosecution of cases involving victims of crime. Agent Blyth recently investigated a local human trafficker and provided untiring support to a victim in that case, resulting in the conviction and 32 year sentence of the defendant for this insidious crime.
Victim Assistance Award – State Law Enforcement:
Dan Ratliff, Mississippi Gaming Commission and FBI Task Force Officer
This award recognizes a member of state or local law enforcement that exhibits professionalism and superior service and sensitivity to victims. Task Force Officer Ratliff has been steadfast in his efforts to restore the sense of security and trust to victims, while vigorously pursuing justice. Officer Ratliff demonstrated unwavering persistence in the investigation of a local carjacking case that occurred within the City of Jackson and his continual support of the victim in that case.
Victim Assistance Award – Local Law Enforcement:
Kevin Payne, Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians
Mr. Payne has been designated as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in this office prosecuting criminal cases that occur on the tribal lands of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. Mr. Payne consistently demonstrates steadfast persistence and dependability during the prosecution of cases involving victims of crime.
Victim Bravery Award:
“Tori”
Tori was a victim of human trafficking. This award recognizes a crime victim who has shown extraordinary strength and courage. Through her brave actions, Tori helped to achieve justice in the trial of her oppressor, and she continues to help other victims of human trafficking.
Crime Victim Assistance and Service Legacy Award:
Michelle Rhodes, Rankin County Youth Court
This award recognizes Mrs. Rhodes for her courageous efforts resulting in the rescue of a human trafficking victim. She is a dedicated crime victims’ advocate who works to help victims overcome obstacles and improve their lives. Mrs. Rhodes recently assisted in the prosecution of a local human trafficker.
Crime Victim Steadfast Award:
Tammy Thomas, mother of murder victim
This award recognizes Mrs. Thomas for her determination to bring justice to the defendant that took the life of her daughter. Mrs. Thomas is commended for her persistence, determination, and tireless pursuit of justice.
