Friends:

I want to publicly thank Laura Amico for her extraordinary efforts and commitment in establishing and maintaining the "Homicide Watch" website.  Laura has been named a Nieman - Berkman Fellow and will begin studying "journalism innovation" at Harvard University this fall.  Over the last two years, Laura, through Homicide Watch, has provided a rare glimpse into the lives of victims of homicides and their families that is rarely seen.  Prior to Homicide Watch, most homicides in the District were classified just as a number and would be usually forgotten by most of us - - other than the families and close friends - - by the next news cycle.

Laura provides pictures of the victims, the memorials that would often be erected near the scene of the crime, and she posts the heart-breaking remembrances from family members and friends.  Homicide Watch reminds all of us - - violence affects all of us - - it is not inevitable - - and all of us have a role in stopping it.  Laura's writing is always respectful, compassionate, and balanced. 

When MPD makes arrests in cases, Homicide Watch is usually the first to publicly post the information. The website provides regular updates on the status of court hearings on each homicide and the eventual court and jury decisions.   "Tracking every case" and "never forgetting the loss" has brought a sense of healing to thousands of District residents whose loved ones have been killed.

As Laura plans her move to Boston, she is making an appeal to all of us to make sure the site continues.   Please open the link below to learn more about the innovative internship program Laura has created and ways for all of us to support it.   http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1368665357/a-one-year-student-reporting-lab-within-homicide-w

Our heartfelt thanks to Laura and best wishes in her continued success.

Bests, CM Jim Graham