Natchez Trace Parkway Ranger Recognized for Outstanding Work with Victims

OXFORD - U.S. Attorney Scott Leary is proud to have recognized Law Enforcement Ranger Dylan Romine from the National Park Service on April 20, 2026, for his outstanding work and service on behalf of crime victims in the Northern District of Mississippi. Ranger Romine was given the Carolyn Clayton Victims' Service Award as part of the District's recognition of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

In the predawn hours of May 11, 2024, Mother's Day, a family was changed forever. A twenty-year-old chose to drive on the Natchez Trace Parkway while under the influence of alcohol. His actions resulted in a head on collision that claimed the life of a father and severely injured a minor child who were on their way to a local fishing tournament.

Dylan Romine, a law enforcement Ranger with the National Park Service, was the first Ranger to respond to that scene. Ranger Romine worked to ensure that lifesaving care was received by the minor victim and that crucial investigative steps were taken. He later provided testimony that was described by a U.S. Magistrate Judge as among "the most competent and compelling testimony" he had ever heard from a law enforcement officer. The work that he and other law enforcement Rangers with the NPS performed following those tragic events led to a 240-month sentence for the defendant.

Those are normal things that society expects from their law enforcement officers. Ranger Romine went above and beyond in his actions in that case. He worked to ensure that the victims were informed and assisted throughout the process and worked to make sure that their voices were heard and their rights were protected. His dedication to the victims' family was noticed throughout the criminal justice process by the Assistant US Attorney who worked on this case and nominated him for this Award.

U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, "So often we take for granted the wonderful work provided by our law enforcement professionals. They miss holidays and birthdays protecting Mississippians from crime. Our officers run to danger, not away from it. Our office is honored to recognize Ranger Romine, and all the other law men and women who work selflessly for us. Dylan Romine embodies the best of what we expect from our men and women who put on a badge. The victims of this crime were tragically made part of the criminal justice system, and Ranger Romine treated them with the dignity and care they deserved."

Superintendent of the National Park Service Wendy Hart Ross said "The Natchez Trace Parkway is incredibly proud of Ranger Romine's dedication and professionalism. He adheres to strict investigative protocol while supporting victims, their families, and their communities during times of crisis. His work exemplifies the highest standards of public service and this award is well-deserved."

Carolyn Clayton embraced the role of victims' advocate at a time when there was no such thing. Her daughter was murdered at a time when there were no laws on the books defining victims' rights and she had to rely on the media for information. Clayton championed victims' rights in Mississippi and worked tirelessly to bring about changes to laws affecting those touched by violent crime. In her honor, the United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Mississippi awards the Carolyn Clayton Victims' Service award to recognize law enforcement or individuals who have demonstrated tremendous efforts and service to crime victims.