Four Assistant U.S. Attorneys in Oregon were named recipients of the 2014 Director's Awards, given by the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys for extraordinary professional achievements and excellence.

Gary Sussman, who prosecutes child sexual abuse and exploitation cases, received the Director's Award for Superior Performance as a Criminal Assistant U.S. Attorney. He has served as a Project Safe Childhood Coordinator for seven years, according to a press relase from the U.S. Attorney's Office. His cases have included prosecuting an Aloha mother who allowed her husband to sexually abuse her children and a child pornography case involving a former school teacher.

Tim Simmons, Craig Gabriel and Billy Williams received Director’s Awards for Superior Performance in Indian Country. The three assistant U.S. Attorneys serve as tribal liaisons to the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon and were recognized for their work in building partnerships with tribal communities, prosecuting Indian Country crimes and promoting safety.

"I am particularly proud to have our Indian Country and Project Safe Childhood prosecutors recognized in this way as it speaks to the hard work of our office, prioritization and continued commitment in these areas," Amanda Marshall, U.S. Attorney for Oregon, said in a press release. "Having four of our (assistant U.S. Attorneys) recognized for their significant contributions to the mission of the Department of Justice, and the citizens of Oregon is a testament to the commitment, dedication, and hard work of all our employees."

-- The Oregonian