St. Louis County Attorney Mark Rubin is proud to announce that four prosecutors were honored by the Duluth Police Department at the annual Commendation Ceremony held on March 7, 2019.
Assistant County Attorneys Vicky Wanta, Chris Pinkert, Jon Holets, and Rebekka Stumme each received the Police Partnership Award for the successful prosecution of some of the most serious offenses our community has faced this past year.
Rebekka Stumme was praised for her efforts to bring justice to Ellis Tooles who was charged with a variety of crimes including distribution of drugs, child sexual assault, and the dissemination of child pornography.
Vicky Wanta was honored for her role in prosecuting five co-defendants charged with Attempted First Degree Homicide involving facts that were fairly described as torture.
Jon Holets was recognized for achieving justice in the prosecution and trial of two sex traffickers involved in the actual "selling" of young girls.
Chris Pinkert partnered with law enforcement in targeting and dismantling a complex conspiracy of drug distribution that resulted in nearly twenty prosecutions and the decimation of a major pipeline of deadly drugs.
Presenters highlighted the successful collaboration between the St. Louis County Attorney's Office and the U.S. Attorney's Office. The St. Louis County Attorney's Office joins the Duluth Police Department in honoring the efforts of Laura Provinzino, Chief of Major Crimes, U.S. Attorney's Office, and her colleagues, who assured that many of these same defendants received justice in federal court.
Chief Tusken and his lieutenants served as award presenters and noted the diligence, cooperation, and dedication of each awardee before a standing room only audience. “The St. Louis County Attorney's Office congratulates the numerous police officers, support staff, and civilians also receiving commendation for specific acts of bravery, leadership, and professionalism in achieving justice and maintaining safety for our community,” said County Attorney Rubin.