The Austin Police Department has partnered with Brave Alliance, Consulate General of Mexico in Austin, End Coercive Control, Greater Austin Crime Commission, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), SAFE Alliance, Texas Association Against Sexual Assault (TAASA), Texas Department of Public Safety Victim Services, Texas Health and Human Services, Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA), Travis County Attorney’s Office, and Travis County Community Justice Services to highlight National Crime Victim’s Rights Week in April.

As part of that effort, the coalition is seeking award nominations from the Central Texas community to recognize those in the criminal justice field who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and professionalism in serving crime victims.

Now, through March 8, 2021, anyone who has been impacted, directly or indirectly, by an individual or group in the criminal justice profession who provided exceptional care and commitment to crime victims, is encouraged to make their appreciation known by submitting award nominations online for the Suzanne McDaniel Award or the Crime Victims’ Hero Award.

The Suzanne McDaniel Award goes to a victim advocate who demonstrates a true commitment to ensuring all crime victims are supported and believed. This individual represents and supports crime victims in the Criminal Justice System and through their recovery process.

The Crime Victims' Hero Award is awarded to an Individual or team working within law enforcement and/or judicial system directly affiliated with assisting crime victims. This individual or team demonstrated outstanding advocacy on behalf of crime victims.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week began in 1981 and is dedicated to raising awareness about victimization and its impact on individuals, families, friends and the community, and to promote laws and practices to help victims of crime.

If you’d like to learn more or get involved, please follow the National Crime Victims’ Right Week Central Texas Facebook page.