Nashua PD's Jennifer Dickinson Honored For Her Work As Victim Advocate

CONCORD, NH — Jennifer Dickinson, the Nashua Police Department's victim/witness advocate, has been honored for her work serving victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking.

Dickinson recently was presented with the Sandra Matheson Award by New Hampshire Attorney General John M. Formella. The award has been presented since 2013 to people who improve the rights and services of crime victims and survivors.

Dickinson has spent the last 15 years with the NPD, handling more than 15,000 domestic violence cases during that time. Before that, she worked with domestic violence survivors at the Manchester YWCA.

In her role in the NPD, Dickinson is involved in domestic violence cases from the initial arrest through negotiations, trials and sentencing. She regularly keeps prosecutors updated on survivors' wishes and concerns.

This year, Dickinson has worked with prosecutors to develop new guidelines for prosecuting Nashua domestic violence cases.

"(Dickinson) is known for passionately and patiently working hundreds of cases each year, selflessly making herself available to help victims at all hours of the day and night, and for doing everything in her power to ensure each survivor is not only heard but receives the appropriate services to find safety and enhance their lives," Formella said.

Formella added: "On a daily basis, she advocates for the rights of and services for crime survivors, ensures that the Nashua Police Department is complying with the Victims' Bill of Rights and uses her own time and tenacity to fight for the humanity and justice she believes each survivor deserves."

The award is named for Sandra Matheson, who created the Office of Victim/Witness Assistance within the New Hampshire Attorney General's Office. Matheson served as the director of the Office of Victim/Witness Assistance for 26 years and is considered a pioneer for her work in developing laws and policies to help respond to victims of crime.