The Big Apple's U.S. Attorney Tessa Gorman took the stage in Seattle, marking National Crime Victims' Rights Week with a hefty dose of recognition for those in the trenches aiding victims of some of the most heinous federal crimes. Gorman, alongside a team of local leaders, hammered home the pressing needs facing survivors at an event that echoed this year's theme: "How Would You Help: Options, Services, and Hope for Crime Survivors."

In a statement obtained by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Gorman tipped her hat to the staff who are "on the frontline of law enforcement, helping victims pick-up the pieces and move forward after devastating events." She recognized the unenviable task of supporting survivors while they stand toe-to-toe with their assailants or navigate the treacherous waters of financial restitution.

At Seattle City Hall, Gorman wasn't flying solo. She stood shoulder to shoulder with King County Prosecutor Leesa Manion, helmsman of the Domestic Violence Unit Lorna Staten-Sylvester, State Senate bigwig Manka Dhingra, and Sexual Violence Law Center big cheese Riddhi Mukhopadhyay. The powerhouse panel dissected the evolution of victim services like a finely-tuned machine, sharing insights and strides made to better the lot of those dealt a tough hand by crime.

Behind the scenes, it's not just about talking a good game. Gorman drew attention to the Financial Litigation Unit’s efforts to snag restitution for victims of crime. Moreover, the collaboration with community groups and other attorney’s offices, through initiatives like WashACT, is putting the squeeze on human trafficking, making no bones about their collective resolve to cut this scourge from the streets.

Up for special commendation this year, National Park Service Special Agent Susannah (Sanny) Lustig snagged the inaugural Victim Witness 2024 Excellence Award. Lustig’s not your garden-variety agent; she's been hailed for "revolutionizing how the National Park Service responds to victims.” As a top-shot child forensic interviewer and victim assistance program manager, she's lending a strong arm and a keen eye to other agencies. According to the same U.S. Attorney’s Office announcement, Lustig's sterling in cases like U.S. v. Turrey and U.S. v. Chapman is the stuff of legend, underscoring her commitment and training prowess within the Park Service.