The U.S. Justice Department has presented Richard H. Norcross III, a retired law enforcement officer from the Keasbey section of Woodbridge, with the Professional Innovation Award during the annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
This honor recognizes a program, organization or individual who has helped to expand the reach of victims’ rights and services.
“Early in his career as a detective, Mr. Norcross nearly lost his life in an attack that claimed the lives of both his brother, who was a patrolman, and a second detective,” Attorney General William P. Barr said in a prepared statement. “Since that tragedy, he has provided police officers and other crime victims with support throughout their recoveries. Even after his retirement from the Camden County Prosecutor’s Office, he has used his experience to develop innovative technology that enables prosecutors to provide critical information to victims.”
After an injury from the shooting that took his brother’s life forced him into retirement, Norcross joined CSI Technology Group, a law enforcement computer software company, where he helped create a portal to replace an outdated victim notification system, according to the statement. The portal provides direct links to services and real-time case information and has revolutionized the way prosecutors’ offices and crime victims communicate, making victims feel more connected and better informed.
Through a password-protected site, victims can file an impact statement, communicate with an advocate and upload receipts, pictures and documents needed for their restitution requests, according to the statement.
“Mr. Norcross’ dedication and compassion, borne of personal experience as a survivor himself, make his technological contributions even more significant,” Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Matt M. Dummermuth said in the statement. “Through ingenuity and a steadfast commitment to service, he has helped thousands of law enforcement officers and victims of crime in the aftermath of trauma.”
More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.