Attorney General James Uthmeier recently announced the recipients of the Distinguished Victim Services Award at the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Ceremony. This annual event, conducted by the Florida Attorney General’s Office, honors law enforcement officers and victim advocates who provide exceptional service to crime victims.
““I’m honored to recognize several outstanding law enforcement officers and victim advocates who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help victims of crime,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “Through their vital, selfless work, they are assisting victims and their families through their darkest days, as well as helping us make our home safe, strong, and free.””
The recognized law enforcement officers include Detective Andrew Arteaga and Officer Shawn Crocker from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, along with Detective Sergeant Shawn Galarza from the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office.
Honored victim advocates are Tiffany Petro from the Indian Harbour Beach and Satellite Beach Police Departments; the City of Miami Police Department’s Victim Advocate Services Unit, including Ana Rodriguez, Vida Abril, Sharon Marbury-Vester, Osmaira Llaneras, and Ronia Williams; and Hilda Sagastume and Nicole Charbonier from the Coral Springs Police Department.
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, which has been observed since 1981, encourages citizens and advocates to reflect on their commitment to supporting crime victims. The Florida Constitution, along with the Florida Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights, ensures victims are granted the right to be informed, present, and heard at crucial stages of criminal proceedings, to be free from harassment, and to have the safety of their families considered in bail or pretrial release conditions.
The Attorney General’s Division of Victim Services and Criminal Justice Programs acts as an advocate for crime victims, providing various services to assist them.
