Sen. Renee Unterman Honored for Advocacy Work During National Crime Victim Rights Week

ATLANTA (April 20, 2015)  |  Sen. Renee Unterman (R – Buford) was honored by the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council for her work as an advocate and supporter of victim’s rights in the Georgia General Assembly. The Council presented Sen. Unterman with the Angel Award at their 6th annual ceremony held on April 14, 2015, in Forsyth, Georgia, during National Crime Victim Rights Week.

“I have always been drawn to helping those who find themselves without a voice after a traumatic life event, and I am humbled by this recognition. I will continue to fight for their recovery, as well as the swift punishment of those who seek to profit off of innocence lost,” said Sen. Unterman.

“I can think of no one more deserving of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council’s 2015 award for exceptional service to victims than Senator Renee Unterman,” said Jacqueline Bunn, Executive Director of the Criminal Justice Coordination Council. For more than twenty years, she has tirelessly championed victims’ causes. Her most recent effort to get ‘safe harbor’ legislation passed epitomizes her work. Because of her efforts children in our state forced into prostitution can be viewed as victims instead of criminals.”

“Sen. Renee Unterman has worked tirelessly to pass legislation which helps protect the elderly and minors who are trafficked in the sex industry,” said Vernon Keenan, Director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. “She has a passion for her work and for helping those who are not able to help themselves. Sen. Unterman is a true champion for people who are part of an at-risk population.”

National Crime Victim Rights Week is an annual observance facilitated by The Office for Victims of Crime, The Office of Justice Programs and the U.S. Department of Justice. This year’s event was held from April 19 – 25, 2015. This year’s theme—Engaging Communities, Empowering Victims—is meant to emphasize the role of the community in the support and empowerment of crime victims.

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For Immediate Release:
April 20, 2015

For Information Contact:

Jennifer Yarber, Director
Jennifer.yarber@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028