On Wednesday, April 17, 2013, in recognition of National Crime Victim’s Rights Week, April 21 through 27, 2013, Oakland County Officials will honor Tricia R. Dare, Oakland County Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and Special Victims Section Leader, and the HAVEN organization for their outstanding work on behalf of crime victims. 
The Victims Services Distinction Awards will be presented by Oakland County Commissioner Jim Runestad, Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard and Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper at 7:00 p.m., in the Oakland County Board of Commissioners’ Auditorium, located at 1200 North Telegraph Road, in Pontiac, Michigan.
The adoption of Commissioner Runestad’s resolution #12269, established the Victim Services Distinction Award in December 2012. This award focuses on the importance of service providers and their contributions to the more than 4,700 individuals who become victims of crime each year. This award is supported by the Board of Commissioners who also supported the resolution.
“I believe that those serving on the frontline helping crime victims should be recognized for their exceptional work. Oftentimes, their work goes unnoticed, but is crucial, not only to victims, but also the medical community and justice system, when solving crimes and helping victims reclaim their lives,” stated Oakland County Commissioner Jim Runestad.
Oakland County Commissioner Jim Runestad has collaborated with Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard and Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica R. Cooper to recognize those who provide valuable services to crime victims. Sheriff Bouchard and Prosecutor Cooper were instrumental in the selection of the award recipients, Tricia R. Dare and HAVEN for their Professional Innovation in Victim Services.
Oakland County Sheriff Michael J. Bouchard expressed the following:
“Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Tricia Dare is a well-respected prosecutor who dedicates herself to protecting our most vulnerable victims and is truly deserving of recognition. She makes a positive difference each and every day.”
Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica R. Cooper shared the following sentiment stating:
“I am pleased that the Board of Commissioners has chosen to recognize the dedication and hard work it takes to represent, and bring justice to, victims of crime in our county and state courtrooms on a daily basis. It is also recognition of the necessity of community education for the prevention of violent crime and the advocacy and treatment for those who become victims.
About Tom and Ann Gendich