Victim services specialist for MADD honored by D.A.
Linda Sposato of West Norriton receives civilian commendation
NORRISTOWN » As grieving relatives attend court hearings for drunk drivers who killed or injured their loved ones, Linda Sposato, a victim services specialist for Mothers Against Drunk Driving Pennsylvania, is that “familiar face” often by their sides to offer support.
For her “tireless and impactful work with MADD,” Sposato, of West Norriton, recently received a civilian commendation from Montgomery County’s top law enforcer.
“She is routinely a familiar face in the crowded courtroom, quietly, and without fanfare, showing support for victims of DUI crimes and observing in DUI court cases as an advocate for awareness and prevention. She has dedicated her life to raising awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving,” District Attorney Kevin R. Steele said during a ceremony at the Montgomery County Public Safety Training Campus in Plymouth Township.
Sposato, whose 18-yearold-daughter, Bernadette, was killed in an alcoholrelated crash in Chester County 21 years ago, understands the loss. Bernadette was a passenger in the vehicle and the driver was sentenced to 11½ to 23 months in jail.
Steele said Sposato experienced “every parent’s worst nightmare.” Following the tragedy of her daughter’s death, Sposato became a victim services specialist for MADD.
“She has organized many, many events, spoken to hundreds of students about drinking and driving and generally, worked tirelessly to prevent drunk driving,” Steele said. “Linda has also provided comfort to many families that have lost a loved one to a drunk driver, making sure that none of the lives cut short by a drunk driver will ever be forgotten.”
Sposato also works with a victim impact panel, speaking to thousands of DUI offenders, putting an unforgettable face to the impact DUI has on the community, Steele said.
“Through the years, Linda has made a remarkable difference in Montgomery County,” said Steele.
Saying he recognizes Sposato for her “tireless and impactful work with MADD” Steele said he was honored to present Sposato with a District Attorney’s Civilian Commendation.
Sposato was among seven civilians who received commendations during the recent event that was attended by a limited audience at the county public safety training facility due to COVID-19 restrictions, but was also broadcast virtually via Zoom.
“Seven of today’s heroes don’t wear a uniform and aren’t part of law enforcement. They are ordinary people who sprang into action instinctively to try to save someone’s life or spent the better part of their lives working to help others and law enforcement, or someone who did extraordinary things to help someone else or who were a key part of an important investigation and criminal trial,” Steele said.
“I am pleased to be able to share these stories of everyday heroes who walk among us. They are stories of compassion and comfort. They are heroic stories,” Steele added.