DOINews: BIA Victim Services Specialist Bremner Recognized for 'Working Hard, Making a Difference'

	Bureau of Indian Affairs victim specialist Wendy Bremner accepts her "Working Hard, Making a Difference" award from U.S. District Attorney for Montana Michael W. Cotter.

Bureau of Indian Affairs victim specialist Wendy Bremner is the winner of the U.S. attorney for the District of Montana's "Working Hard, Making A Difference" award. The award, which U.S. District Attorney for Montana Michael W. Cotter announced on March 28, recognizes those in Indian Country who have made a significant contribution to public safety.

Bremner is one of nine Native Americans, nationwide, who work as BIA victim specialists. As a victim specialist, Bremner helps crime victims navigate within the criminal justice system assuring that crime victims' rights are honored.

"Bremner is an exceptional victim specialist" Cotter said. "She addresses the needs of crime victims in a caring and professional way, enabling her law enforcement partners to apprehend and prosecute perpetrators. The volume of work in Blackfeet is breathtaking. Despite the great needs, Bremner is tireless. She is a reliable and valuable partner to the law enforcement team at Blackfeet. She has touched hundreds of lives. We are grateful for her service."

BIA victim specialist supervisor Linda Bearcrane said, "Wendy's role as a victim specialist is devoted to helping Native Americans during very traumatic circumstances. The Office of Justice Services is fortunate to have Wendy as a victim services provider who treats victims with dignity and respect. I am delighted that Wendy Bremner is being recognized for the outstanding service she provides the people of Blackfeet Reservation."

• For more information regarding BIA's Victim Services Office go to: http://www.bia.gov/WhoWeAre/BIA/OJS/VictimServices/index.htm

• For a Digital Story Telling Workshop video featuring Wendy Bremner, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7AVc9CdOD0

Submitted by: Office of Public Affairs - Indian Affairs
March 31, 2014