The Navajo County Board of Supervisors recognized County Attorney Brad Carlyon for being awarded the distinguished Michael C. Cudahy Criminal Justice Award by the State Bar of Arizona. At its annual convention held in Tucson, the Bar presented Carlyon with the award which recognizes criminal law prosecutors who have worked tirelessly to advance the principles of criminal justice by representing the public’s interest with integrity, fairness, tenacity, creativity, brilliance and, above all, professionalism. The award winner is selected by the Bar’s board of governors. “I am deeply honored to receive this award. While I was named the recipient, this award is truly a reflection of all the dedicated individuals working in the Navajo County Attorney’s Office,” said Carlyon. “Not just the prosecutors, but also our extraordinary support staff and victim advocates.” Carlyon has served as the Navajo County Attorney since 2009. Throughout his more than 30-year career, he has worked to secure justice for victims and forged collaborations and programs to improve the criminal justice system. A third-generation Arizonan, Carlyon earned his law degree from University of Arizona College of Law. Carlyon champions victims’ rights and services, including spearheading establishment of the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center, which assists victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse, and creating the Navajo County Attorney’s Office Victims’ Rights Symposium, now in its 12th year. He fosters partnership among law enforcement, courts, prosecutors, defenders, probation and community services to holistically address crime and victims in Navajo County communities. Carlyon has helped establish or enhance several diversion and deflection programs for adults and juveniles that help Navajo County address the complex issues surrounding mental health, substance abuse and crime. “Brad Carlyon has consistently challenged the status quo of how the criminal justice system should operate, especially regarding victims of crime,” said Navajo County Manager Glenn Kephart. “This is a well-deserved recognition of his leadership and innovation.” “I can’t think of anyone more fitting to be the recipient of the Michael C. Cudahy Criminal Justice Award. Congratulations! On behalf of the Navajo County Board of Supervisors, we’re so proud of you. You’ve always been passionate about this field, and your hard work and dedication have paid off. You’ve made a real difference in our county, and it’s great to see that recognized. You continue to inspire your colleagues to be their best every day to keep working in this field and making a difference in the lives of the people in our communities. Keep up the amazing work!” said Navajo County Board of Supervisors Chairman Alberto L. Peshlakai.
