State’s Attorney Recognized for Commitment to Victims’ Rights

Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser and members of his victim advocacy team received the Champion of Victims’ Rights Award from Marsy’s Law for Illinois on Tuesday, October 20, in recognition of their work supporting crime victims throughout Sangamon County.

The award was presented during a ceremony at the Sangamon County Complex in Springfield by Jennifer Bishop Jenkins, State Director of Marsy’s Law for Illinois. The recognition honored Milhiser and his staff for their commitment to ensuring crime victims are treated with fairness, dignity and respect throughout the criminal justice process.

“State’s Attorney Milhiser and his team have positively impacted countless survivors, helping them on the road to recovery,” said Jenkins. “John and his staff go above and beyond to make sure every victim they encounter is informed, empowered and supported at every step of the criminal justice process. That’s true in high-profile cases like the killing of Sonya Massey and those cases that don’t receive much attention but still deeply impact someone’s life. They are true champions of victims’ rights.”

In addition to Milhiser, four members of the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office were recognized for their work assisting crime victims. They included Abbey Tappenbeck, Director of Victim/Witness Services; Holli Gleason, Assistant Director of Victim/Witness Services; Amber Calvert, Victim/Witness Advocate for the Felony Division; and Kelli Montejano, Victim/Witness Advocate for the Domestic Violence Division.

The office’s victim advocacy staff works with individuals affected by crime, helping them understand their rights, navigate court proceedings and access support throughout the legal process.

“No one asks to be a victim of a crime. We take very seriously the responsibility we have to make sure crime victims in our county feel supported and heard,” Milhiser said. “The amazing victim advocates in our office are dedicated to helping survivors navigate the criminal justice process in a way we hope helps them heal. We appreciate being recognized for this work and will continue to do all we can to hold offenders accountable and champion the rights of crime victims under Marsy’s Law.”

Marsy’s Law for Illinois was adopted by voters in 2014 as an amendment to the Illinois Constitution. The amendment expanded the rights of crime victims and established legal mechanisms to enforce those protections, including the right to be treated with fairness and respect for their dignity throughout the criminal justice system.

The October 20 ceremony was held in the Sangamon County Board Chambers at 200 S. Ninth Street in Springfield, with Jenkins presenting the awards to Milhiser and his victim advocacy staff.