During Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, the Sequoyah County Coordinated Community Response/ Sexual Assault Response Team (CCR/ SART) gathered to recognize three individuals whose dedication to victims and survivors has made a lasting impact across the region.

The annual awards highlight professionals who not only excel in their daily work, but consistently go beyond expectations to protect, support and advocate for those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault.

“This is more than just a job to these individuals, it’s a calling,” Cindy Smith, investigator with the Sequoyah County Sheriff ’s Office Special Victims Unit, said. “Their compassion, dedication and willingness to advocate for survivors sends a powerful message that domestic violence and sexual assault will not be tolerated in Sequoyah County.”

This year’s honorees included:

• Amanda Keeton, District 27 District Attorney’s Office

Keeton received the Helen Edwards Lifetime Achievement Award for her exceptional work and long-standing commitment to combating domestic violence and sexual assault. Smith said Keeton’s award reflects a career marked by consistency, strength, and unwavering support for victims.

“Amanda has spent years fighting for victims who often feel voiceless,” Smith said. “Her dedication has changed lives and strengthened this community.”

• Officer Sonny Jasna, Sallisaw Police Department

Jasna was presented with the Sandra Girdner Award for his outstanding work responding to domestic violence calls and advocating for survivors. Smith said Jasna has built trust with victims and shown exceptional professionalism on some of the most difficult cases law enforcement encounters.

“Officer Jasna brings compassion to every call,” Smith said. “He makes sure victims know they are heard, believed and supported.”

• Michelle Rye, SANE Coordinator, Help-In-Crisis

Rye received the Dianne Barker Harold Award for her exemplary service as the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Coordinator. Her work ensures that survivors receive trauma- informed, dignified care at one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.

“Michelle provides a safe space for survivors in their darkest hours,” Smith said. “Her calm presence and expertise help victims begin their healing process.”

Smith said the coordinated effort among law enforcement, healthcare providers, advocates and prosecutors is essential to addressing domestic violence and sexual assault in a meaningful way.

“We have a strong network here in Sequoyah County,” she said. “These award recipients represent the heart of that network. Their hard work shows survivors that they are not alone—and that this community stands firmly with them.”

The CCR/SART emphasized that award presentations during Domestic Violence Awareness Month serve as both recognition and a reminder: the work to end abuse continues year-round.

“We are incredibly proud of these individuals,” Smith said. “Their dedication shows that Sequoyah County is committed to safety, justice and hope for every victim and survivor.”