LCPD Victim Services Coordinator Receives Award

Rita Carranza, YWCA’s “Non-Profit Outstanding Woman of the Year”

The La Crosse Police Department is pleased to share that on November 13, 2014, Rita Carranza was awarded the YWCA’s “Non-Profit Outstanding Woman of the Year” award for her years of service and work with the Victims of Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Violent Crime.

Since 2004, Rita has worked with the La Crosse Police Department through our partnership with New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Centers as the Victim Services Coordinator with the Domestic Abuse Reduction Team (DART).  Through this partnership, she has helped hundreds, if not thousands, of victims at their weakest moments, search for any way to get through some of their darkest days.

Rita also works with our Victim Services Unit, advocating and seeking out appropriate services for victims of all crime, no matter their gender, race, religion, or nationality.  Rita’s dedication to victims finds no end.  With the Parenting Place, she continually works to keep the peace between feuding parents, as well as protecting, guiding, and helping children.

Rita has become a leader in the world of domestic violence prevention, and as such, has been instrumental in the creation and implementation of several prevention programs.  These programs, which allow for successful life after victimization, include the implementation of lethality assessments, “Operation Safe Home”, and “Advocates on Patrol”, all of which rapidly identify those victims in the greatest of danger so that we at the Police Department can assist in their protection.

Thank you, Rita, for your many years of excellent service and dedication.  Congratulations on your award!