The Victim-Witness Services unit of the Carson City District Attorney's Office has been recognized by the American Red Cross and the Alliance for Victims' Rights for its efforts during the IHOP shooting and its aftermath.
The two-member unit, staffed by Frankee Haynes and Suzanne Crawford, was recognized for its crisis intervention, counseling, obtaining financial support and help with medical bills and shelter for survivors and witnesses.
It was also nominated for the following awards from the Alliance for Victims' Rights: Bringing Respect and Honor to Victims, Outstanding Unit of Criminal Justice and the Justice Award.
The unit was started in 2007 by District Attorney Neil Rombardo with the mission of providing support to victims and witnesses. Its services include providing victims of violence with information on how to receive funding from the Justice Department under the Victims of Crime Act. It also provides assistance to victims and witnesses through the legal process by meeting with them, showing them the courtroom and making them comfortable with the court process, according to a press release.
"The legal system can be overwhelming for those who suddenly find themselves a victim of or witness to a crime," Rombardo said in a statement. "The Victim-Witness Services Unit helps to calm those concerns so that the District Attorney's Office can effectively prosecute cases and provide for the needs of victims and witnesses."
The unit is at 885 E. Musser St. and can be reached at 887-2072.
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