KPD victim advocate honored for going above, beyond duty

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KPD victim advocate honored for going above, beyond duty

Around Osceola

Thursday, 27 May 2010 00:00

Kissimmee Police Department’s Victim Advocate Carmen Vargas was recognized by the Victim Services Coalition at its annual luncheon on April 23.
The coalition recognizes four or five people each year who have gone above and beyond their scope of work to assist victims. Awards are presented at the group’s annual luncheon.
Those recognized in the past have been attorneys, judges, doctors and high-ranking business people.
According to a press release, Vargas was recognized for handling challenges that she encounters. For example, one evening, Kissimmee police officers responded to the home of a woman who had been strangled and battered by her husband. The husband had fled before the officers arrived and he couldn’t be located. The next morning, Vargas visited the victim to offer services. When she arrived at the home, she noticed the victim would only speak to her from outside the home. Carmen sensed something was wrong from the victim’s demeanor. The abuser had returned to the home during the night and was inside the home. Vargas quickly notified dispatch. While waiting for the officer to arrive, Vargas found herself in the middle of a confrontation. The abuser husband had some words for his wife when he realized what was happening. Vargas cooled the situation by engaging the abuser in conversation until law enforcement arrived, the press release stated.
“Carmen is a valuable asset to the Kissimmee Police Department,” Chief Fran Iwanski said in the press release. “Her gentle demeanor is one that allows her to handle any type of hostile situation calmly and professionally. She always puts the safety and needs of a victim first. It is truly an honor to serve with Carmen.”