By Linda Metz, Staff writer

lmetz@observer-reporter.com

Washington County took time out Thursday to remember those who have fallen victim to crime.

A panel of guests, including Judge Mark Mascara and several crime survivors, addressed the crowd of about 100 people who gathered at Courthouse Square in Washington for the event that was held as part of National Crime Victims' Rights Week.

"My administration is committed to providing services and resources for victims so that they can find strength and support, hope and help," said District Attorney Steven Toprani, who was the first to speak.

Toprani pointed out that since taking office at the beginning of the year, his office has sought additional funding, improved equipment and technology and specialized training for staff specifically to help crime victims.

A new assistant district attorney, Kristin Clingerman, was added to the county's domestic and sex crimes division. Also, a major crimes unit has been created, and a 24-hour hotline is available for residents to report crimes and check on the status of offenders.

The panel discussion followed Toprani's comments.

In addition to Mascara, the panel included Clingerman; South Strabane Detective John Bruner; Loretta Manus of the Mon Valley Juvenile After School Program; Pam Tarr, whose 24-year-old son was killed in a shooting in 2006; and a woman named Annette, who wanted to withhold her last name because she had been a victim of domestic abuse.

"Each day, we have the opportunity to do something" for crime victims, said Betsy Dane, coordinator of the district attorney's Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program. "Justice for the victims is justice for all."

Also, Dane presented an award to Jim and Kathy Loos of Bentleyville, whose daughter, Alexzandra, was killed in 2004 by a speeding driver who was still on the road despite being a habitual offender with a suspended license.

The Looses were presented with the Outstanding Service to Victims of Crime Award for their continued effort to get state legislation enacted that would take a harsher stance against habitual driving offenders.

The legislation is supposed to be introduced in the state Senate next week by Sen. J. Barry Stout, D-Bentleyville.

"I hope the law stays as pure as Alex's name," said Jim Loos.

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