The District 27 District Attorney’s Office recently hosted its annual “Tree of Honor and Remembrance” ceremony in honor of those who have lost their lives to violent crimes.

“This time of year can be incredibly difficult for people who have lost loved ones,” District Attorney Jack Thorp said. “This ceremony is a way to bring people together to honor and celebrate the lives of those lost to violent crime.”

Victims’ families were invited to attend and participate in the ceremony. The “Tree of Remembrance” is adorned with photographs of the victims and ornaments provided by the families in memory of loved ones lost.

“I want to thank Adreona Welsh, our victim witness advocate, who organized this year’s ceremony,” Thorp said. “I am incredibly proud of the work done throughout the year by each of our victim advocates. Every day they show amazing compassion and dedication in their efforts to make sure that victims and their families are taken care of and have a chance for their stories to be told.”