WASHINGTON - Attorney General Jeff Sessions recognized 202 department employees for their distinguished public service today at the 65nd Annual Attorney General’s Awards Ceremony. Nineteen other individuals outside of the department were also honored for their work. This annual ceremony recognizes individuals for their outstanding service and dedication to carrying out the missions of the Department of Justice. The department will also present one posthumous award to Deputy Commander Patrick T. Carothers for exceptional heroism in the line of duty during a fugitive apprehension in Allenhurst, Georgia on Nov. 18, 2016, in which Deputy Commander Carothers was mortally wounded.
“Every single day, the 115,000 men and women of the Department of Justice work to protect our national security against terrorist threats, defend the civil rights of all Americans, reduce violent crime in our communities, stop deadly drug dealers and their organizations, and strengthen the rule of law," said Attorney General Sessions. “This work benefits every American, and each Department of Justice employee plays a role that helps us accomplish our objectives. Today, we take a moment to recognize those who have distinguished themselves by exemplary service to the Department. Each one of these men and women-through their dedication and commitment-has made a difference. Meeting with them and their families today, I am more confident than ever that the Department-and the safety of the American people-are in good hands."
“I’m delighted that the Attorney General chose to recognize the work of one of our outstanding prosecutors," said U.S. Attorney Parker. “Mr. Meitl’s work in this case was nothing short of extraordinary and exemplifies the work that goes on in this office every day."
This year’s program honors individuals across the department and our federal, state, local, and tribal partners for their self-less efforts, protecting our national security and our civil rights, addressing rising violent crime in our communities, going after gangs and those trafficking in dangerous narcotics and human beings. The awards also honor the work of civil and environmental litigation, which enforces the rule of law and upholds our Constitution. They also recognize employees whose ideas and efforts save taxpayer dollars and help our government operate more effectively and efficiently, among other contributions to public safety and good governance.
Attorney General Sessions recognized Northern District of Texas Assistant U.S. Attorney P.J. Meitl for the prosecution of one the largest cases ever against the Aryan Brotherhood of Texas (ABT), which is considered a Tier One gang in the State of Texas. Mr. Meitl’s leadership in the ABT investigation was instrumental in the highly successful prosecution of dozens of members and associates of various white supremacy groups in North Texas. To date, 89 dangerous defendants are incarcerated for their involvement in a far-reaching drug trafficking conspiracy. Combined, the defendants had previously been convicted of 730 crimes that included murder, sexual assault, robbery, and other violent offenses.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
