News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

DV coalition recognizes Prosecutor Welch, office for support during Walk a Mile event

Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch and his office were recognized for their ongoing advocacy and support for victims of domestic violence during the Transitions Shelter Walk a Mile in my Shoes event.

This was the ninth year the prosecutor’s office supported the cause through financial donations and participation.

The event brings awareness to signs of domestic violence, the stories of survivors and how to help someone in need.

This year, Prosecutor Ron Welch was honored with the Todd Bickle Award, created in remembrance of the former Clerk of Courts who was a longtime supporter of Walk a Mile in my Shoes and a celebrity walker.

“Having known Todd for many years, this is a special award. Todd was a positive, caring person who was always trying to make life a little bit better for someone else,” Prosecutor Welch said. “To receive an award in his honor is a privilege, as it means someone has seen you act in that same way, and that is truly inspirational.”

In his capacity as Muskingum County Prosecutor and during his time as an assistant prosecutor, Prosecutor Welch has fought for justice on behalf of victims of domestic violence, for those who survived and those who did not.

This involves meeting with victims to ensure their voices are heard and aggressively prosecuting violent offenders.

In addition to prosecutors, the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office employs victim-witness advocates to connect victims with needed services, ensure rights are protected and keep victims informed throughout the entire criminal process.

Felony Victim-Witness Advocate and Coordinator Lea Ann Tignor has been a member of the Domestic Violence Coalition for eight years and assists in the planning, promotion and fundraising for the event.

Her role in the coalition allows Tignor to build relationships with other community advocates and add more tools to better serve victims in her role at the prosecutor’s office.

“It’s more than a job to me,” Tignor said. “I want each victim to feel that their voice is heard and respected when they meet with our office. Justice is often defined by a court sentence, but it begins when a victim is finally treated with the kindness they deserve. That’s what I’m here for.”

Every year since the inception of Walk a Mile in my Shoes in 2014, the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office participates in the event by walking as a group and as celebrities, judging walkers for awards, donating and serving on the Domestic Violence Coalition.

Breaking the cycle of domestic violence is not just limited to the courtroom. It takes a community to create awareness and encourage survivors to escape their abusers.

As a whole, the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Offices was recognized for their support with the Mick Amicone Award.

“Justice for domestic violence survivors and protection of the community from abusers is not the result of one person’s actions. For progress to occur, a community must work together to address a problem,” Prosecutor Welch said. “The Muskingum County Community has shown a commitment to addressing the impact of domestic violence on our area. For our office to be recognized for ongoing support of Transitions and the cause is an honor.”

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