Top spot
Nice job picking US Attorney Carmen Ortiz as Bostonian of the Year (January 1). Ortiz shows tremendous passion for the victims of crime. I met her while providing pro bono public relations services to the Florence Crittenton League of Lowell adoption agency, which had fallen prey to a nearly $640,000 embezzlement. Prior to the plea hearing in which the bookkeeper would admit her guilt, Ortiz met with many of the agency’s families, donors, and volunteers. They were devastated and felt betrayed by a woman they had trusted and who had been a part of the adoption of their children. For about an hour, Ortiz described the legal process we would watch unfold, explained how she had arrived at her sentencing recommendation, and answered our many questions. She probably had a million other things she could be doing at that moment, but she made everyone in that room understand there was no other place she wanted to be.
Jason Kauppi / West Groton
Having witnessed Ortiz in action over many months of grand jury activity, I was extremely impressed with her sharpness and level of insight. Her appointment was well deserved. I’m looking forward to seeing more cases under investigation within her department going to trial.
Roger Allen / Ashburnham
Encouraging and informative article. I fear Ortiz will have her work cut out for her when casino gambling comes to Massachusetts.
Franklin Ferguson / Brookline
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