Hometown Hero, Gayle Scott, Recognized for Dedication to Victim Justice

SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that the District of South Dakota has recognized Federal Bureau of Investigation Victim Specialist Gayle Scott as a "Hometown Hero" for her career serving crime victims in South Dakota. Ms. Scott has served with the FBI for 24 years. Prior to her federal service, she worked with crime victims in a similar role with the Minnehaha County State's Attorney Office. Ms. Scott brings unique qualities to this work, day in and day out. She exudes warmth and compassion, provides comfort and support, and respectfully encourages participation in the criminal justice process. Throughout her years of service,

Ms. Scott has worked with crime victims in hundreds of cases, helping them through difficult investigations and trials. Ms. Scott's work has directly resulted in victims finding the courage necessary to bring justice to dangerous perpetrators, thereby making our communities safer for all.

Ms. Scott was honored during an award presentation held Monday at the United States Attorney's Office in Sioux Falls.

"Gayle Scott is most deserving of this high honor for her tireless work with victims of crime over many years," said U.S. Attorney Ron Parsons. "With compassion and dignity, she has stood with countless victims and their families, listened to them, lifted them up, and helped them find their voice in order to bring justice to those who have harmed them. It is a true honor to recognize, thank, and celebrate Gayle for her outstanding service to the people of the District of South Dakota. She is truly our Hometown Hero."

"Victim Specialist Scott has dedicated herself, personally and professionally, to the victims of federal crime for the past 24 years," said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. "Her exceptionally dedicated and always humble service to crime victims and witnesses in South Dakota is almost always done behind-the-scenes, but her work is an integral part of the FBI's mission: to protect the public and ensure justice for all. I thank Gayle and all of the FBI's dedicated Victim Specialists for the work they do every day to serve victims and survivors."

This award was presented as part of the Department of Justice's Freedom 250 initiative, a nationwide effort in which United States Attorneys' Offices across the country recognize individuals whose service, courage, leadership, and commitment have made a meaningful impact in their communities in advance of America's 250th Anniversary.

The award presentation was attended by members of the United States Attorney's Office, District of South Dakota, members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Ms. Scott's family.