U.S. Attorney recognizes outstanding agents for work with victims

Oxford, MS – Two FBI agents were recognized on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Oxford, Mississippi for their outstanding work and service on behalf of crime victims.

FBI Special Agents Molly Blythe and Ryan Berthay were recipients of the inaugural Carolyn Clayton Victims’ Service Award given by U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner in observance of Crime Victims’ Rights Week.  Both agents Blythe and Berthay were specifically recognized for their work on behalf of child exploitation and human trafficking victims.

The award, which is named in memory of long-time victims’ rights advocate Carolyn Clayton, will be given annually by the U.S. Attorney’s Office to recognize agents or individuals who have demonstrated tremendous efforts and service to crime victims. Clayton, who founded Survival Incorporated after a tragedy in her own personal life, championed victims’ rights in Mississippi and worked tirelessly to bring about changes to laws affecting those touched by violent crime.

“I can think of no more fitting name for this award given in observance of Victims’ Rights Week than the Carolyn Clayton Victims’ Service Award, and no more deserving agents to receive it this year than Molly Blythe and Ryan Berthay,” remarked U.S. Attorney Joyner. “Ms. Clayton and Special Agents Blythe and Berthay have devoted themselves to ensuring that crime victims are heard and protected and that justice is served on their behalf. For all the work that Carolyn Clayton did on behalf of victims during her lifetime and for all of the work that Agents Blythe and Berthay are currently doing, we are immensely grateful.”