NBC New York's Brian Thompson Joins Morris County Prosecutor's Office for Crime Victims' Rights Week Ceremony

Published on April 08, 2019

The Morris County Prosecutor's Office ceremony in honor of National Crime Victims' Rights Week was held on April 8, 2019 in the Morris County Freeholder Public Meeting Room. National Crime Victims' Rights Week is observed every year as a time of remembrance and progression of the programs instituted to help victims of crime. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office will have a tree lit up outside of the office from April 7-13, as well as a wreath in honor of all of the victims of crime in Morris County.

Morris County Prosecutor Fredric Knapp welcomed the over 100 members of law enforcement, families of crime victims and community leaders who attended the ceremony including Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon, Morris County Deputy Freeholder Director Heather Darling, and Reverend Doctor Smazik of the Presbyterian Church in Morristown. A victim testimony was provided by Laurie Parks, whose daughter Jennifer was murdered in 2005. Ms. Parks spoke candidly about the hardships she has experienced following her daughter's death, and expressed her gratitude to the members of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office who still work closely with her to this day.

Brian Thompson, Award Winning Journalist and New Jersey Correspondent for NBC New York, was the Keynote Speaker for the ceremony. His presentation concerned covering criminal trials as a member of the media throughout his career. He provided a unique perspective to the program, recognizing victims willing to provide their impact statements in court, especially when they were aware of the media's presence.

Following Mr. Thompson's presentation, Deputy Freeholder Director Darling presented a proclamation to Prosecutor Knapp on behalf of the Morris County Prosecutor's Office in honor and recognition of the 2019 Crime Victim's Rights Week.

Prosecutor Knapp stated, I would like to thank all those who attended this program, especially Laurie Parks for continuing to have the courage to speak about her experiences as a victim, and Brian Thompson for sharing his unique perspective on the impact by victims on sentencing. The Victim Witness Unit, comprised of Coordinator Donna Pasquariello, Supervisor Amanda Holloway, and Advocates Michelle Leone and Kelly Klinger, work exceptionally hard to ensure that crime victims in Morris County receive the proper guidance and assistance. The Morris County Prosecutor's Office will continue to ensure that the rights and needs of victims of crimes receive the utmost attention.

From left: Victim Witness Advocate Kelly Klinger, Freeholder Darling, Victim Witness Advocate Michelle Leone, Victim Witness Supervisor Amanda Holloway, Victim Witness Coordinator Donna Pasquariello, Prosecutor Knapp, Brian Thompson, Reverend Doctor Smazik, and First Assistant Prosecutor Tom Zelante.

Prosecutor Knapp, Deputy Freeholder Director Darling, and Victim Witness Coordinator Donna Pasquariello.

Inquiries concerning this press release should be directed to Public Information Officer Peter DiGennaro at pressinquiry@co.morris.nj.us or 973-829-8159.