LANSING — Sen. John Proos was recently presented with the Frank J. Kelley Justice Award by the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan in recognition of his career of service to the citizens of the state of Michigan and his dedication to public safety policy.

The Kelley award is PAAM’s highest award and is reserved for individuals who have devoted themselves to the cause of serving crime victims and improving the criminal justice system.

“It is truly an honor to receive this tribute from Michigan’s county prosecutors, who are working tirelessly every day to protect our families, punish offenders and support victims,” said Proos, R-St. Joseph. “I was proud to work with our prosecutors as we enacted comprehensive reform to create a smarter and more effective criminal justice system in Michigan.

“I greatly appreciate the dedication of our county prosecutors, and I look forward to continuing to work with them in achieving safer communities and a justice system focused on meaningful rehabilitation and treatment.”

PAAM president and Iron County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Powell presented Proos with the honor during the organization’s 90th annual conference last month.

“As practitioners in the prosecution field, sometimes we forget what our jobs look like from the outside,” Powell said. “That is why we are so grateful to have Senator Proos as a partner who continuously represents the best interests of public safety. His passion to craft laws that will make our criminal justice system more efficient and just will go a long way for Michigan’s citizens.”