nice!

In August 2002, when the child victim turned seven years old, her case was brought to court, requiring her to testify against her abuser. Unfortunately, the young victim froze while on the stand and was unable to provide key testimony needed to obtain a conviction. During the recess granted by the judge, the prosecuting attorney, the child’s adoptive parents and a psychologist all attempted to convince the child to return to the stand.

After more than an hour of cajoling the child, Miazga asked to speak with the girl. He shared with her that he was often afraid during his job as a trooper and he removed his badge from his uniform and placed it in the girl’s hand. He told her the badge gave him courage and protected him when he was scared and that it would do the same for her if she took it with her on the stand. The young victim agreed to return to the courtroom, clutching the badge tightly as she told the jury the details of her horrifying experience. Her testimony led to a guilty verdict of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and a sentence of life in prison for her abuser.

In recognizing Miazga, The Crime Victim Foundation noted his willingness to give comfort and strength to a child victim of sexual abuse.

"It is only by working together as a community that we can truly empower victims and assist them in their attempts to heal from the devastating affects of crime," stated Rep. William Van Regenmorter, president of The Crime Victim Foundation. "Trooper Miazga’ s willingness to go above and beyond what was required to give comfort and strength to a child victim of sexual abuse demonstrates a commitment to all victims."