A Pullman Police Detective and two staff members from the Whitman County Prosecutor’s Office have been acknowledged for their contributions to the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault cases.

The recognition was given by Whitman County Prosecutor Denis Tracy during a recent meeting of the sexual assault task force in Pullman, which includes local law enforcement, prosecutors, child protective services, and Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse. The individuals honored are Senior Deputy Prosecutor Tessa Scholl, victim specialist Kristina Cooper, and Pullman PD Detective T.J. Cornish. Scholl has been involved in prosecuting sexual assault cases in Whitman County Superior Court for several years, while Cooper focuses on supporting victims. Detective Cornish has been instrumental in investigating digital evidence associated with these cases.

Prosecutor Tracy highlighted that in the past three years, his office has received 63 sexual assault cases, with approximately one-third resulting in guilty pleas. Additionally, nine cases have gone to trial during this period, which exceeds the national average. Tracy emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of Scholl, Cooper, and Cornish.

Scholl and Cooper were awarded the “Heavy Hitter” awards, while Cornish received a separate recognition from the Whitman County Prosecutor’s Office.

For further insights, you can listen to Tracy’s comments through the provided audio link.