#WeekInJustice: Week 250
Victims’ Rights Week Luncheon
On April 8, 1981, President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 4831, officially declaring the week beginning April 19, 1981, as the first National Victims’ Rights Week.
“For too long, the victims of crime have been the forgotten persons of our criminal justice system,” the Proclamation read. “We need a renewed emphasis on, and an enhanced sensitivity to, the rights of victims.”
During the Victims’ Rights Week luncheon April 20, the Pima County Attorney’s Office’s Victim Services Division recognized advocates from across the community for their contributions to helping victims and survivors of crime.
Since 1975, the PCAO’s Victim Services Division supports, educates and empowers victims and survivors to seek justice that helps restore them to as nearly whole as possible.
Providing on-call services 24/7/365 is not something the staff and volunteers take for granted. Thank you to all the awardees, leaders, and community members who attended the luncheon, and to everyone who dedicates their time to survivors and justice.
We A.R.E. Gems
Whether in the spotlight or behind the scenes, the work done in the People’s Office takes diverse, dedicated professionals committed to helping one another, but most importantly, supporting the community.
During the We A.R.E. Gems Pima County Attorney’s Office, Paralegal Angelica Garcia, and Attorney Tai Summers were recognized as Quarterly Individual Distinguished awardees April 21.
Each day, they are crucial to our office’s ability to seek justice for victims of crime. Their efforts exemplify the core values of Pima County and the PCAO and speak volumes to the gems they truly are. Thank you for all you do.
The We A.R.E. Gems program is a Pima County employee recognition initiative that honors staff who exemplify Accountability, Respect and Ethical behavior in their service to the community.
National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Arizona Awards
During the 2026 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Arizona Awards presentation April 21, Attorney General Kris Mayes recognized some amazing community advocates.
Founders of the Phones Down, Just Drive organization, Julie Festerling and Deborah Garcia, were joined by the Pima County Attorney’s Office Victim Services Director, Sara Moody, and Victim Advocate Hailey Evans as they received the Distinguished Service Award from AG Mayes.
As survivors of crime, the Phones Down, Just Drive team continually demonstrates resiliency every day to support their communities in their pursuit of justice and healing.
Thank you for all you do for the community and the PCAO. Your efforts are always appreciated, and the recognition is well deserved.
88-Crime Supports Family Fun Day
At 88-CRIME, our mission to prevent and reduce crime relies entirely on our partnerships with local law enforcement, our media partners, and—most importantly—you. We spent this past weekend out in the community letting our neighbors know exactly how our program helps promote safety throughout the region.
We had a fantastic time on Saturday at Reid Park for the Children’s Advocacy Center of Southern Arizona and SAYF-Pima County (Southern Arizona for Youth and Families) Family Fun Day, followed by a great Sunday afternoon hanging out with fans at the Tucson Sugar Skulls game!
Whether we’re at the park or the arena, we’re proud to work alongside you to protect our neighborhoods. Thanks for helping us keep our community safe!
And thanks to Deputy Williams and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department for supporting Family Fun Day alongside us!
Thanks for your continued support!
PCAO Communications Team
