The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa announced on Mar. 6 that they are joining communities nationwide to observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, taking place from April 19 to 25, 2026.
This annual observance highlights victims’ rights, protections, and services under the theme “Listen. Act. Advocate. Protect victims, serve communities.” The event aims to recognize the contributions of law enforcement and victim advocates across Iowa while honoring crime victims.
Two individuals have been recognized by the Southern District of Iowa for their outstanding service: Brittany Marshall from Crisis Intervention & Advocacy Center (CIAC) in Adel received the Award for Excellence in Victim Services, while Officer Braeden Nielson from Fairfield Police Department received the Law Enforcement Victim Service Award. "During National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we highlight that achieving justice includes honoring the dignity and voices of victims. Our office remains committed to listening, advocating, and ensuring victims’ rights are respected at every stage of the process," said United States Attorney David C. Waterman for the Southern District of Iowa.
Marshall was praised for her victim-centered approach serving ten counties with after-hours assistance and training programs for law enforcement staff. Nielson was recognized for his dedication to justice and advocacy efforts beyond traditional patrol duties since graduating from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy in 2023.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also acknowledged Charlotte Kovacs and Katie Blanchard as key supporters who assist crime victims throughout federal legal proceedings.
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa supports victims and witnesses through its services unit according to its official website. The office operates under the United States Department of Justice with facilities located in Des Moines' Neal Smith Federal Building as well as courthouses in Davenport and Council Bluffs according to its official website. It employs 24 prosecutors who handle both civil and criminal cases on behalf of the United States according to its official website.
For more information about services or victim rights, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdia/victim-witness-assistance.
