U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors Advocates During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

In recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Thomas E. Wheeler II, honored 18 members of federal, state, and local law enforcement at a private ceremony. The event celebrated professionals who have gone above and beyond advocating for the rights and well-being of federal crime victims, demonstrating exceptional dedication to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and driving meaningful change in their communities.

The U.S. Attorney Office relies on a team of experienced victim-witness professionals who listen to victims, help them navigate the criminal justice process, and ensure their voices are heard. Financial litigation and asset forfeiture teams act diligently to maximize asset recovery on behalf of victims. Every day, Assistant U.S. Attorneys appear in court to advocate for victims' rights under the Crime Victims' Rights Act (CVRA) and take action to protect those affected by federal crime.

In fiscal year 2025, our victim witness professionals contacted victims more than 14,000 times regarding services and court updates; asset forfeiture personnel collected more than $2.6 million in criminal restitution debts and forfeiture actions granted to victims via remission or restoration; and Financial Litigation Programs collected over $7.4 million in civil actions to enforce debts. This impressive work illustrates how our District listens, acts, and advocates on behalf of victims.

U.S. Attorney Wheeler also recognized Victim Witness Coordinators Stephanie Lloyd and Johnna Preidt, expressing gratitude for their leadership in organizing these annual efforts and for their unwavering, daily commitment to advocating for victims of crime in federal court.

The categories and honorees are listed as follows:

Victim Advocate Award honors the tireless efforts of victim advocates who work on the front lines, offering emotional support, resources, and guidance to those affected by trauma. Whether providing advocacy during legal proceedings, connecting victims with necessary services, or ensuring their voices are heard, the recipient of this award goes above and beyond to ensure that victims' rights are upheld, and their well-being is prioritized.

Awarded to:

• Susie's Place Child Advocacy CentersLinks to other government and non-government sites will typically appear with the "external link" icon to indicate that you are leaving the Department of Justice website when you click the link.

Federal Law Enforcement Victim Assistance Award recognizes the recipient's commitment to ensuring victims' rights are upheld, providing them with compassionate support throughout investigations, and working to ensure they receive necessary resources and assistance. The recipient of this award demonstrates exceptional dedication to both the investigative process and the well-being of victims, working tirelessly to navigate the complex legal landscape while offering empathy and advocacy. It highlights their key role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and victims, helping to secure justice and support in the aftermath of crime.

Awarded to:

• Cassandra Jones, Special Agent, ATF
• Todd Bevington, Special Agent, ATF
• Kristen Hartman, Detective, IMPD
• Ryan Clark, Detective, IMPD (Retired)

Assistant United States Attorney Victim Assistance Award honors the outstanding efforts of an AUSA in providing exceptional support and advocacy for victims throughout the federal legal process. This prestigious award recognizes a deep understanding of the emotional and psychological challenges faced by victims, going above and beyond their legal duties to offer guidance, support, and resources. This distinction highlights the integral role AUSAs play in balancing the pursuit of justice with the compassionate treatment of victims.

Awarded to:

• Adam Eakman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
• Bradley Blackington, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
• Michelle Brady, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana

Support Professional Victim Assistance Award recognizes exceptional contributions to supporting victims of crime throughout the legal process, particularly in cases involving trauma or violence. This award honors the recipient's dedication to managing the logistical and administrative aspects of cases, while also offering emotional support and compassion to victims during often difficult and overwhelming legal proceedings.

Awarded to:

• Jennifer Ross, Financial Litigation Paralegal Specialist, U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana
• Molly Waldrop, Criminal Paralegal Specialist, U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana
• Maurine Bwambok, Victim Witness Assistant, U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Indiana

Victim Assistance Trial Team Award recognizes the exceptional collaboration and dedication of a team working to support victims throughout the trial process. This award honors the collective efforts of law enforcement, legal professionals, victim advocates, and support staff who work together to ensure victims are informed, supported, and treated with dignity during legal proceedings. The recipients of this award have demonstrated outstanding teamwork in navigating the complexities of criminal trials, while prioritizing the needs and well-being of victims.

Awarded to:

U.S. v. Cameron Love

• Brendan Sullivan, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
• Pam Domash, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
• Shane Penney, Paralegal Specialist
• Kathy Wells, IT Systems Manager

U.S. v. Ellen Corn

• Michael Moore, Special Agent, U.S. Secret Service
• Greg Brescher, Detective Sergeant, Jasper Police Department
• Matt Miller, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
• Tuesdae Suttles, Paralegal Specialist

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