News  Victim Services Coordinator Tara Howard is honored for a decade of victim advocacy

As a young girl, Tara Howard enjoyed watching "Law & Order, SVU (Special Victims Unit)" with her mother and dreamed of a career in criminal justice. She attended college at Northeastern University and later worked in the Attorney General's Office and found her calling working with crime victims and survivors. Ms. Howard began working for the Massachusetts Probation Service 2021 as a Victim Services Coordinator.

Ms. Howard is being recognized this month, Victim Rights Month, by the Massachusetts Office of Victim Assistance (MOVA) for her decade of service. She assists victims and survivors in Suffolk County, including the Boston Municipal Courts, Suffolk Superior, Suffolk Juvenile, and Brookline District. Her coverage area also includes Dedham District, Quincy District, and Stoughton District. In her role as Victim Services Coordinator, Ms. Howard provides support, information, and advocacy to victims of crime. Coordinators assist with safety planning, explain the court process, as well as notify victim of offender release, violation proceedings, and ensure compliance with the Massachusetts Victim Bill of Rights.

"This is an important milestone, we appreciate Tara’s dedication, hard work, and advocacy on behalf of victims and survivors of crime," said Corinn Crowninshield, Statewide Manager of Victim Services.

Recently reflecting on her career, Ms. Howard said she finds helping victims and survivors "rewarding work." 

"Everyday, I feel like I've helped someone and given them a voice," she said.

Ms. Howard said she has also noticed a positive change in the area of victim services.

"There is more support and more programs to help victims. I also think it is important for victims and survivors to know their rights and to receive the help they need. I am grateful to provide help to those who need it," she said.