Lewin Named 2023 Outstanding Victim Advocate for Florida

When the unimaginable happens to crime victims in Nassau County, those who enter the criminal justice system know they can count on Victim Specialist Renae Lewin to be there as a pillar of support. Her caring and dedicated approach were just two of the reasons Lewin was recognized by Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody with the 2023 Outstanding Victim Advocate Award. When presenting the award, Moody said Lewin “works day, in, day out to ensure that every victim has a shoulder to lean on and a voice that is heard.”

The award, part of the 2023 Distinguished Victim Services Award, was presented to Lewin by Moody on April 26 during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

“Renae continues to be a shining example of compassionate, devoted service for victims in Nassau County and is an invaluable resource to everyone at the State Attorney’s Office,” said State Attorney Melissa Nelson. “Truly deserving — she is a constant source of guidance and encouragement to everyone she meets.”

Lewin is a victim specialist and works with victims and families in a broad range of Nassau County cases from juvenile and misdemeanor cases to serious felonies, including murders.

Lewin also serves as the office liaison for victim-centered organizations both in Nassau County and Jacksonville, and her efforts were recognized internally when she received the office’s 2021 Community Service Award.

She said the work is “a calling on my life.”

“If I have the opportunity to help another, that is a blessing for me,” she said. “The ability to work for good doesn’t just help an individual, it helps our community, and I am grateful to be a part of an amazing team that makes a difference.”