Brendan Johnson, Prosecution of Domestic Violence, South Dakota 2023

U.S. Attorney Brendan Johnson has been named Prosecutor of the Year by the South Dakota Domestic Violence Coordinating Committee for his tireless efforts in combating domestic violence, human trafficking, and sexual assault in the state.

The award, given to Johnson for the second time, recognizes his commitment to protecting women and holding defendants accountable for their crimes. As the U.S. Attorney for the District of South Dakota since 2009, Johnson has made it a priority to prosecute cases related to violence against women, resulting in increased prosecution rates.

“Brendan has demonstrated a heartfelt commitment to protecting women and holding defendants accountable,” said Brenda Hill, Native Co-Director of the South Dakota Coalition Ending Domestic & Sexual Violence. “He truly comprehends the entire continuum of violence against women and strongly supports our efforts to reduce domestic and sexual violence.”

The South Dakota Domestic Violence Coordinating Committee is an organization led by the South Dakota Coalition Ending Domestic & Sexual Violence and the South Dakota Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault. The group includes law enforcement leaders from the state, federal, and tribal levels, and is designed to protect and represent the interests of survivors of domestic and sexual assault.

Krista Heeren-Graber, Director of the SD Network Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault, also praised Johnson's work. “Brendan has an impressive track record in the fight against domestic violence. His grit and determination to bring these perpetrators to justice has been a turning point in the lives of several victims. Quite simply, he has given them hope,” she said.

Johnson was quick to acknowledge the efforts of his office and law enforcement partners in his statement. “I am extremely honored to receive this award, but want to recognize the work of my entire office and our law enforcement partners. Without them, none of this is possible,” he said.

Johnson's commitment to combating domestic violence has been a hallmark of his tenure as U.S. Attorney. He has worked closely with advocacy groups to promote awareness and support for survivors, and has implemented initiatives to improve the prosecution of domestic violence cases.

With this award, Johnson continues to demonstrate his dedication to protecting the women of South Dakota and holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sd/pr/violence-against-women-advocacy-group-names-us-attorney-brendan-johnson-prosecutor-year