The bipartisan Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus, co-chaired by Representatives Juan Ciscomani of Arizona and Jim Costa of California, recognized leaders from across the country at its 2026 Awards Ceremony on April 28 as part of CommUNITY Day during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
The ceremony highlights the importance of supporting victims of crime and strengthening public safety efforts nationwide. This year, two honorees from Arizona’s Sixth District were acknowledged for their work: Lori’s Place in Sierra Vista and Maria Fuentes, co-chair of the Governor’s Council on Child Safety and Family Empowerment.
“I am honored to recognize these two incredible leaders from Arizona’s Sixth District,” said Congressman Ciscomani. “Lori’s Place and Maria Fuentes embody compassion, leadership, and a deep commitment to standing alongside victims and families during their most difficult moments. Their work is making a real difference in people’s lives, and I am proud to see them recognized on a national stage.”
Lori’s Place received the Allied Professional Award for its innovative approach connecting resources to support victims through mental health services, education initiatives, civic leadership roles or justice system partnerships. Lori Rutherford, founder of Lori’s Place stated: “At Lori’s Place, we are proud to serve as the only family advocacy center supporting individuals and families across Cochise, Graham, and Greenlee Counties. Since our founding in 2016, our mission has been rooted in compassion and a steadfast commitment to meeting survivors where they are.” Rutherford also said: “As a former emergency room nurse… I was driven to help create a space that provides comprehensive… care… free of charge.” She added that recognition by Congressman Ciscomani with this award highlights her team’s dedication.
Maria Fuentes was awarded the Suzanne McDaniel Memorial Award for Public Awareness for her efforts raising awareness about crime victim needs through media engagement. Fuentes said: “I was honored to join Rep. Ciscomani in Washington to accept the Suzanne McDaniel Memorial Award for Public Awareness… This recognition reflects a continued commitment to supporting victims… I remain committed every day to advancing solutions that create lasting change…”
According to Ballotpedia, Juan Ciscomani defeated Kirsten Engel in both the 2022 (winning with 50.7% of votes) and 2024 (winning with 50%) general elections for Arizona’s Sixth Congressional District seat.
Ciscomani began serving as U.S. Representative for Arizona’s Sixth District after replacing Ann Kirkpatrick in 2023 according to House.gov. He has served continuously since then according to Congress.gov.
Ciscomani was born in Hermosillo, Mexico in 1982; he is currently forty years old and resides in Tucson according to AZ Central. He graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2005 according to University Alumni Association.
The Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus was founded in 2005 with bipartisan support; it focuses on elevating crime victim needs while promoting policies like those found under programs such as the Victims of Crime Act or Violence Against Women Act.
