Tricia L. Everest, Crime Victim Advocacy, Oklahoma 2024

In a ceremony held virtually, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland awarded the Volunteer for Victims Award to Tricia L. Everest for her advocacy on behalf of crime victims in Oklahoma City. This year marked the 40th observance of National Crime Victims' Rights Week, which took place from April 18-24 with the theme 'Support Victims. Build Trust. Engage Communities.'

Ms. Everest, who serves as the chair for Palomar, Oklahoma City's Family Justice Center, was among 13 individuals and teams from across the country who were honored for their work. The award recipients were recognized for their tireless efforts to support crime victims and make America a more just and compassionate place.

'Every day, we bear witness to stirring acts of heroism on the part of compassionate and courageous advocates – and crime victims themselves,' said Attorney General Garland. 'One of our responsibilities is to ensure that victims are informed, have a voice, and are supported in the healing process.'

Ms. Everest's work has been instrumental in removing barriers for abuse victims to access the services they need, as well as founding ReMerge, which diverts mothers from prison and empowers women to build healthy foundations for themselves and their children. Her dedication to victim advocacy has earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2019.

Ms. Everest's pioneering vision for Palomar set a new standard for local coordinated efforts to combat domestic violence, hold abusers accountable, and provide wholistic support for victims of abuse. Her commitment to making Oklahoma communities safer and more just is truly commendable.

The Office for Victims of Crime, a component of the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims' Rights Week. The ceremony served as a reminder of the importance of supporting crime victims and their families as they navigate the healing process.

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, an estimated 1.2 million Americans age 12 and older were victims of violent crime in 2019, down from 1.4 million in 2018. The statistics highlight the need for continued support and advocacy for crime victims.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdok/pr/attorney-general-merrick-garland-recognizes-tricia-l-everest-advocacy-behalf-crime