FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The Coconino County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) recognized several standout individuals and teams this week during a joint meeting of the Flagstaff City Council and the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. The 2025 CJCC Awards highlight exceptional work that strengthens collaboration, innovation and service throughout the region’s criminal justice system.
Awards were presented in three categories: Collaboration and Partnership, Innovation in Criminal Justice, and Courage in Justice.
North Star Task Force Recognized for Collaboration and Partnership
The North Star Task Force received the Collaboration and Partnership Award for its survivor-informed, multi-disciplinary work combating human trafficking across northern Arizona. In 2024 alone, the task force’s efforts led to 28 arrests tied to child sexual exploitation and provided services to more than 250 trafficking survivors and 32 adults. Officials praised the task force for effectively linking law enforcement, prosecutors and social service providers to deliver a unified, trauma-responsive regional response.
Mobile AcuDetox Team Wins Innovation in Criminal Justice Award
The Stuck Community Acupuncture Mobile AcuDetox Team was honored for its innovative approach to supporting justice-involved and unsheltered individuals. The team provides mobile NADA-protocol acupuncture across rural and tribal communities—including the Navajo, Hopi and Havasupai—bringing treatment directly to those who need it most. To date, they’ve delivered over 2,300 treatments to more than 700 individuals, with 99% reporting reduced stress and anxiety. The program also employs staff with lived experience to enhance peer-support and trust.
Courage in Justice Award Presented to Amanda Gallegos
The Courage in Justice Award went to Amanda Gallegos, the first Peer Recovery Support Specialist at Coconino County Juvenile Court. Gallegos uses her lived experience with incarceration and addiction to build trust with families affected by substance use. She serves on the Children of Incarcerated Parents Workgroup, helps develop caregiver resources and works daily to reduce stigma and bring compassion into the justice process.
Highlighting Community-Driven Public Safety
CJCC leaders emphasized that these awards underscore the importance of collaborative, community-focused work in improving public safety, expanding access to justice and promoting well-being across Flagstaff and Coconino County.
For more information, contact the Coconino County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council at (928) 981-4688 or visit their website at coconino.az.gov/943/Criminal-Justice-Coordinating-Council.
