An Assistant Muskingum County Prosecutor who is often on the front lines of protecting victims of domestic violence was recognized for her compassionate and steadfast commitment to justice Monday evening.

During the annual Transitions Shelter Walk a Mile in my Shoes event, Molly Martin served as a walk judge and was honored with the Mitzi Shook Award.

The event, hosted over the past eight years along Main Street in front of the Muskingum County Courthouse, is designed to highlight and bring awareness to domestic violence issues in the community.

As one of the office’s felony prosecutors, Martin works with victims of crimes, including those from initiate partners, to ensure justice is rendered and that violent offenders be placed behind bars.

“The award is very meaningful because I knew Mitzi personally, and I knew how much she had an impact on victims,” Molly said. “I appreciate how difficult it is for domestic violence victims to come forward and will work as hard as possible to honor their courage.”

The award is named after Mitzi Shook who was the director of the Transition Shelter and a victim advocate in the City of Zanesville before she passed away from cancer in 2020.

Transitions provide domestic violence victims with assistance including housing. Unlike similar initiatives nationwide, Transitions recognizes all victims of domestic violence, including men.

As part of the event, male participants ware shoes typically worn by women, such as high heels, and walk down Main Street, ranked by a panel of judges and cheered on by local citizens.

The Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office has participated in the event each year. Prosecutor Ron Welch and assistants Gerald Anderson, Michael Hughes and John Litle all made return appearances.

“Any community outreach that raises awareness regarding the impact of domestic violence is valuable, but this particular event is especially important as a symbol showing that men stand against domestic violence,” Prosecutor Ron Welch said. “Each year, this event has grown, which is a credit to Transitions and our community. Providing more information and education to people about domestic violence and the harm it causes victims and families allows our office to achieve more justice for victims and more protection for our community.”