Two members of the Vermont Department of Public Safety received awards Friday, April 13, 2018, to honor their exceptional work on behalf of the victims of crime. Dr Trisha Conti, director of the Vermont State Forensic Laboratory, and Kate Brayton, victim services director for the Vermont State Police Major Crime Unit, were among the honorees at the Vermont Crime Victim Rights Week Celebration and Awards Ceremony at the Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe.
“Many of you in this room help victims move past some of the most difficult moments they will ever experience. You stand by them as they take their first steps towards regaining their lives,” Gov Phil Scott said in a speech to the crowd.
“While it’s critical we enforce the law and go after those who harm others, we cannot stop there,” the governor added. “Justice is not served until the voices of the victims of crime have been heard. Many of you often give them their voice, and by doing so help restore normalcy and hope.”
Conti received the Ally Award for her work leading the forensic lab, where she serves a critical role to ensure that law enforcement and prosecutors have reliable, relevant and admissible evidence.
“Tricia plays a critical but often overlooked role helping victims,” Sarah Kunz-Robinson, deputy director of the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, said in presenting Conti with the award. “She approaches her work with diligence, collaboration and just the utmost professionalism.”
Brayton, the first person to serve as victim services director for the MCU, received the State Based Advocate Award for making a significant contribution to the lives of crime victims. The only civilian on the MCU team, Brayton noted she often works with family members of homicide victims — encountering people during the worst experiences of their lives.
“I get the privilege of seeing their bravery and strength and resiliency firsthand,” she said.
Thomas Anderson, commissioner of the Vermont Department of Public Safety, praised Brayton, Conti and everyone who works to assist crime victims.
“Their efforts help to ensure justice for crime victims,” said Anderson, a former US attorney for Vermont. “I know how important it is to reach out and provide service to people when they have become victims, and Trisha and Kate exemplify this commitment to serve.”
Col Matthew Birmingham, director of the Vermont State Police, said: “Advocates for survivors of crime are there for people in the worst moments of their lives and help them navigate the complicated criminal justice system. It’s all about helping them have a voice.”
Support for the Vermont Crime Victim Rights Week Celebration comes from the Victim Witness Program of the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont; the Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services; the Vermont Attorney General’s Office; the Vermont Victim Assistance Program; and the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.