District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis honored 16-year old Ozvie Harris at the DA’s ‘Citizens of Courage Awards. Photo courtesy of San Diego DA’s Office.
SAN DIEGO–The District Attorney’s Office Thursday honored four recipients with the Citizens of Courage Award during the 23rd annual event, which is held as part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
“Nothing held these inspiring individuals back,” DA Dumanis said. “Despite putting their own lives in danger, they showed extraordinary courage and bravery in the face of serious crime.”
The victims were honored in front of more than 300 invited dignitaries, elected officials, community leaders and guests.
This year’s Citizens of Courage recipients include:
Ozvie Harris–A boy who got caught in gang cross-fire when he was 7-years-old and used his body to shield his 2-year old niece, saving her life.
Jim St. Pierre–A North County man who noticed burglars robbing his neighbor’s house, so he offered them a ride, driving them straight to the police station
Cresencio Martinez–A San Diego man who witnessed a violent assault and stepped in when nobody else would, resulting in life-threatening stab wounds.
Timothy Ricker–A witness to a drunken-driving crash who organized others to lift a car off a pregnant woman and then went on to quit his job, starting an innovative business that gives rides to people who have had too much to drink.
The District Attorney’s Office is committed to assisting crime victims through its Victim Assistance Division. In the aftermath of violent crime, Victim Advocates respond as “emotional paramedics.” Last year Victim Advocates reached out to more than 14,000 victims of crime and provided more than 2,000 crisis interventions.