United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Thomas E. Wheeler II, honored 18 members of federal, state, and local law enforcement on Apr. 23 during a private ceremony marking National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. The event recognized professionals who have shown dedication to supporting survivors of federal crimes and advocating for their rights.
The ceremony highlights the importance of those who help victims navigate the justice system and ensure their voices are heard. The U.S. Attorney’s Office relies on experienced victim-witness professionals as well as financial litigation and asset forfeiture teams to assist victims throughout legal proceedings.
In fiscal year 2025, victim witness professionals contacted victims more than 14,000 times about services and court updates; asset forfeiture personnel collected over $2.6 million in restitution debts granted to victims; and Financial Litigation Programs recovered more than $7.4 million in civil actions enforcing debts owed by defendants.
Wheeler also recognized Victim Witness Coordinators Stephanie Lloyd and Johnna Preidt for their leadership in organizing these annual efforts “and for their unwavering, daily commitment to advocating for victims of crime in federal court.” Award categories included the Victim Advocate Award given to Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Centers; Federal Law Enforcement Victim Assistance Awards presented to Cassandra Jones (ATF), Todd Bevington (ATF), Kristen Hartman (IMPD), Ryan Clark (IMPD Retired); Assistant United States Attorney Victim Assistance Awards presented to Adam Eakman, Bradley Blackington, Michelle Brady; Support Professional Victim Assistance Awards given to Jennifer Ross, Molly Waldrop, Maurine Bwambok; and team awards recognizing collaborative efforts on cases such as U.S. v. Cameron Love and U.S. v. Ellen Corn.
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana is the chief federal law enforcement office under the Department of Justice according to its official website. The office maintains headquarters in Indianapolis with a staffed office in Evansville according to its official website, overseeing operations across 60 southern counties divided into four divisions according to its official website. It prosecutes federal crimes, defends civil matters involving the United States according to its official website, and collaborates with federal, state, and local agencies to protect communities according to its official website.
Looking ahead, officials said they will continue working closely with partner agencies across southern Indiana “to listen, act, and advocate on behalf of victims” while ensuring justice is served.
