Source: Office of United States Attorneys
INDIANAPOLIS— On April 10, 2025, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana recognized 22 members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies at a private ceremony. The ceremony honored professionals who have gone above and beyond to advocate for the rights and well-being of crime victims, and have demonstrated exceptional commitment to supporting survivors, raising awareness, and driving positive change in their communities.
“This ceremony is a small token of our appreciation for the selfless dedication of those working tirelessly to ensure victims’ voices are heard, guiding them through the often-complex federal criminal justice process, and providing critical resources and emotional support,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Their work reflects the power of compassion, resilience, and advocacy in making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by trauma and injustice.”
The categories and honorees are listed as follows:
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:
- Vanessa Hassler, Special Agent, FBI
- Russell Warlick, Special Agent, FBI
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:
- Suzanne O’Malley, Project Manager, Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence
- Linda Crocheron, Victim Advocate Administrator, Marion County Prosecutor’s Office
- Jessica Zotz, Victim Specialist, FBI
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:
- Jayson W. McGrath, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
- Peter A. Blackett, 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:
- Sarah Helbig, Paralegal Specialist, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana.
- Natoyia Sims, Financial Litigation Paralegal Specialist, 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:
- Tiffany J. Preston, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
- Carolyn Haney, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
- Lawrence D. Hilton, Former Assistant U.S. Attorney
- Len Rothermich, Special Agent, FBI
- Austin Sahly, Special Agent, FBI
- Kayla Whitaker, Paralegal Specialist
- Maurine Bwambok, Victim Witness Specialist
- Matthew Pankonie, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
- Kathryn Olivier, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
- Bradley Shepard, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana
- Andrew Willmann, Special Agent, FBI
- Sarah Helbig, Paralegal Specialist
- Kathy Well, Systems Manager
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