National Crime Victims’ Rights Week highlights Florida’s commitment to justice and healing
Tallahassee, Florida – Attorney General James Uthmeier recognized the 2025 winners of the Distinguished Victim Services Award in a somber but festive event conducted this morning in the Florida Cabinet Meeting Room. Part of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, this annual event honors the unrelenting dedication of victim advocates and law enforcement personnel who offer vital support to those hurt by crime.
Attorney General Uthmeier said in his speech that he was really grateful for the commitment shown by this year’s prize recipients.
“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,” Uthmeier said.
He underlined how important these people are in not only helping victims and their families during their most trying times but also in creating a more equitable and safe society.
The event underlined the accomplishments of outstanding police officers who have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to victim care. Detective Andrew Arteaga and Officer Shawn Crocker of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office were honored for their compassionate and meticulous handling of delicate matters. Detective Sergeant Shawn Galarza of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office was also praised for his tireless work in fighting for victims’ rights and safety.
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The gathering also highlighted the important work of victim advocates. Among those honored were Tiffany Petro, who works with the Indian Harbour Beach and Satellite Beach Police Departments, and the Victim Advocate Services Unit of the City of Miami Police Department, including Ana Rodriguez, Vida Abril, Sharon Marbury-Vester, Osmaira Llaneras, and Ronia Williams.
These advocates have been important in offering necessary resources, legal help, and emotional support to help victims deal with the aftermath of crimes. Furthermore acknowledged for their outstanding service and commitment to preserving victims’ dignity and rights were Hilda Sagastume and Nicole Charbonier of the Coral Springs Police Department.
Attorney General Uthmeier also paused to consider the larger influence of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, a program started in 1981. He highlighted again the need of the week for advocacy and restating the community’s dedication to all-encompassing victim care. Upholding the ideals of justice for everyone, the Florida Constitution and the Florida Crime Victims’ Bill of Rights guarantee that victims have the right to be informed, present, and heard at all vital points of the process and to be free from harassment and abuse.
The Attorney General’s Division of Victim Services and Criminal Justice Programs was underlined as a beacon of support for crime victims as the ceremony came to a close. This office is determined to make sure victims get the assistance they require to heal and reconstruct their life.
The Attorney General’s Office offers an extensive range of materials and outreach initiatives meant to help crime victims during their rehabilitation process. Individuals wanting more knowledge on the support services accessible should click here.
