Victim's Rights Week

In an effort to reduce domestic violence, victims of this crime are being remembered all across the state this week. At a special tree planting Monday at the Rutherford County Sheriff's Office, Tina Fox told WGNS News . . .

Parole Board member Gary Faulcon commented, "This tree we plant symbolizes the steadfastness of people who have experienced crime and work hard to recover from it -- and to see that justice is done.  As these trees grow, so do the collaborations between those who work with and for victims…whether at the state or local level." 

A Moving Story

Mary Olive Landon (left photo) shared her moving story of being abused by her husband,

In their 14-months together, she was the victim of emotional abuse and even quit her job because of her husband’s jealousy. He then escalated from emotional abuse and isolation to physical abuse.

She left him on several occasions, but went back. However, she eventually built a strong support system and left him for good.

Her former husband was convicted of domestic assault in both Marshall and Williamson Counties.

She had specific advice on what victims of domestic violence should do to break those bonds . . .

Landon has become a voice of encouragement for domestic violence victims. She shows them that you can break the bonds, and succeed on your own. She is a full-time student, becoming a registered nurse and then a nurse practitioner, has a 3.0 grade point average, and most important--is lovingly raising two children as a single mom.

Voice for Victims

22nd State Judicial District Attorney General Mike Bottoms (left photo) was honored with the prestigious Voice for Victims award. For more than three decades he has advocated for victims in the courtroom, over media and countless other public forums. General Bottoms serves Giles, Lawrence, Maury and Wayne Counties. He will be retiring this coming August.  

In the six years since the Tennessee Board of Parole held its first tree-planting events during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, a total of 56 trees have been planted at state and city parks, law enforcement offices, community service agencies and other locations across Tennessee. These trees are daily, visible reminders to the public that victims of crime are important.

These events also include the presentation of awards that honor advocates across Tennessee for their work in assisting crime victims.