One Month After Kidnapping of Amish Girls, Ritchie Recognizes Community at “Thank You” Event

Law Enforcement, Emergency Responders, Community Members, Media Honored

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One month after the kidnapping of two young Amish girls in St. Lawrence County, State Senator Patty Ritchie hosted a gathering Friday evening to celebrate the region’s community spirit and thank all those who helped return the girls safely to their family last month. 

“When tragedy struck, the members of our community stepped up to the plate to support the Miller family and their two young girls,” said Senator Ritchie. “There were law enforcement and emergency responders who put in long hours, ordinary citizens who aided in the search effort, community members who donated food and drink, members of the media who brought much-needed attention to the ordeal and put pressure on the kidnappers and so many more people who simply said a prayer for the safe return of the girls.”

“The generosity and willingness to help demonstrated by our community was truly inspiring—and makes me so proud to call this region “home.”  Tonight’s event was just a small way to say thank you to the hundreds of people who had a hand in the outpouring of support for the Miller family.”

At the event, which was held at the Heuvelton Fire Hall, nearly 200 law enforcement officials, emergency responders, businesses, volunteer organizations, members of the media and local residents were honored by Senator Ritchie for their efforts. 

Law enforcement officials in attendance were also presented with the New York State Senate Liberty Award; one of the highest civilian honors a New Yorker can receive.  Similar to the national Congressional Gold Medal, the award is given to individuals who have merited special commendation for exceptional, heroic or humanitarian acts and achievement on behalf of their fellow New Yorkers.

In addition, Senator Ritchie honored members of the Heuvelton Fire Department with a special plaque in recognition of their work to help with the search and also for their help in hosting Friday’s event.