November 17, 2009
Clerk & Comptroller's Office Recognized for
Domestic Violence Victim Support Efforts

In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness month, both domestic violence task forces in Pasco County held recognition ceremonies.

The East Pasco County Domestic & Sexual Violence Task Force held an awards ceremony on October 1st and recognized the Office of the Clerk & Comptroller with a Certificate of Achievement Award of Appreciation presented by Judge Lynn Tepper. Terri O'Brien, Chair of the Task Force, wrote:

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your commitment and unconditional support in working with victims of domestic violence. Your commitment to providing comprehensive services to victims of domestic and sexual violence has helped to create a safer community in East Pasco. Thank you again for always being willing to go 'above and beyond' in our efforts to end intimate partner violence in Pasco County."

On October 21st, the West Pasco Domestic Violence Task Force recognized the dedication of deputy clerk Sam Plaganis, who has worked with domestic violence injunctions for over 17 years. During this time, Sam helped develop and implement a program that not only provides a safe, separate, and confidential setting for victims to meet directly with Domestic Violence Clerks while they complete the initial petitions for protection, but also provides a much-needed sympathetic ear during a very difficult time in the victims' lives. Sam has used her role at the Clerk & Comptroller's Office to create a network of services to assist the victims of domestic violence.

With dedicated staff such as the Domestic Violence Clerks that were recognized by the local domestic violence task forces throughout Pasco County, the Clerk & Comptroller's Office is able to assist both men and women in abusive situations. We are proud of the work they do and thankful to both the East Pasco County Domestic & Sexual Violence Task Force and the West Pasco Domestic Violence Task Force for recognizing their service.