Shakopee Police Department’s Barb Hedstrom recognized by Congress for outstanding victim advocacy work

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Shakopee Police Department Victim and Community Services Coordinator Barb Hedstrom was honored Tuesday at the U.S. Capitol with the Ed Stout Memorial Award for Outstanding Victim Advocacy.

Members of the Congressional Crime Survivors and Justice Caucus presented Hedstrom with the award alongside Shakopee’s congressional representative, Rep. Angie Craig, who nominated Hedstrom for the recognition earlier this year.

“For me, it was awesome to go to Washington and meet some of these other national level victim advocates and professionals,” Hedstrom said.

Hedstrom has been in the role of victim and community services coordinator for nine years. During that time, she played an integral role in establishing the Shakopee Police Department’s Recovery Assistance Program, which provides scholarships to qualifying individuals who are seeking alcohol or substance treatment and recovery.

Hedstrom is also heavily involved with the Minnesota Alliance on Crime, a statewide coalition of victim service organizations, and serves as the president of its board of directors.

“Almost 10 years ago, Shakopee’s police department was the first in the state to staff a victim services coordinator,” said City Administrator Bill Reynolds. “This innovative action, with the full support of City Council, was a game changer. Since that time, Barb has supported countless victims and had an immense impact on both our police department and the community. She is so deserving of this award, and we are proud to have her working in the City of Shakopee.”

Shakopee Police Chief Jeff Tate said Hedstrom displays a deep commitment to supporting victims of crime and ensuring each person has access to the resources they need.

“We couldn’t be more proud of Barb and the positive impact she’s had on so many individuals who find themselves in less-than-ideal circumstances,” Tate said. “She is incredibly worthy of this prestigious award, and our department is incredibly fortunate to benefit from her passion and legacy.”