Lake County Gazette

On October 19, 2024, Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart was honored with the 2024 Joyce Fitzgerald Award at the Unmask the Violence Gala organized by A Safe Place. The award recognizes individuals whose leadership advances the mission of A Safe Place and supports victims and survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.

Judith Rosowicz, President of A Safe Place's Board of Directors, praised Rinehart for his efforts in securing funding for Lake County’s Anti-Human Trafficking Task Force. Over the past three years, he has also increased the number of prosecutors and victim counselors in his office. As co-leaders of the task force, A Safe Place and the Lake County State's Attorney's Office received $1.5 million from the U.S. Department of Justice.

Pat Davenport, CEO of A Safe Place, commended Rinehart: “Eric has been a leader when it comes to the Human Trafficking Task Force and has been a wonderful partner. We are now able to connect with victims of domestic violence and provide direct services in the courtroom because of our partnership. We look forward to continuing working with his office to help survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking.”

Rinehart accepted the award on behalf of “the dozens of prosecutors, victim support professionals, and administrative staff within the Office who work tirelessly to help survivors of domestic violence.” He acknowledged their dedication by stating that “these amazing public servants take their work home with them as they work to help others, reduce trauma, and make us all safer.”

The annual Unmask the Violence Gala gathers over 300 supporters from across Chicagoland to raise awareness about domestic violence and generate funds for essential programs aiding families affected by such issues.