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Det. Hidalgo was nominated for her unwavering commitment to the protection of children in Bogalusa

CARIE EDWARDS

CORRESPONDENT TO THE DAILY NEWS

Detective Casey Hidalgo of the Bogalusa Police Department was honored this week as a Champion for Abused Children and 2025 recipient of the “Trees for Champions” award presented by the UP Institute and their “Trees for Champions” initiative at Tulane University in New Orleans. The award, part of a powerful initiative to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect, recognizes professionals who work tirelessly to protect and advocate for vulnerable children across Louisiana.

Detective Hidalgo was nominated by Children’s Advocacy Center Hope House for her unwavering commitment to the protection of children in Bogalusa and her compassionate support for victims and their families. Known for going above and beyond the call of duty, Detective Hidalgo has become a pillar of strength and justice for the communities most vulnerable.

Each tree presented through the “Trees for Champions” program represents a child in Louisiana who lost their life in the previous year due to abuse or neglect. The tree given in honor of Detective Hidalgo will be planted next week on the grounds of the Bogalusa Police Department as a living memorial to the life of an infant lost in East Baton Rouge Parish to neglect in 2024.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this award, especially knowing the life that it represents.” Detective Hidalgo said. “I hope that when people see the tree, they’re reminded of the children who’ve been lost to child abuse and neglect.”

The “Trees for Champions” initiative began as a meaningful way to remember the children lost to abuse and neglect, while also honoring the dedicated professionals working to prevent such tragedies. Since its inception, more than 300 trees have been planted across Louisiana, including 100 trees since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. These heartbreaking losses stem from causes such as physical trauma, neglect, and drug exposure, most often at the hands of parents or caregivers.

Each year in April-National Child Abuse Prevention Month-a blue ribbon will be tied to the tree planted in Detective Hidalgo’s honor, serving as a symbol of remembrance and a call to action for the community.

Through her dedication, Detective Casey Hidalgo has not only protected countless lives-she’s become a voice for those who no longer have one. Now a tree will stand in the community, both in remembrance and as a symbol of hope for a safer tomorrow.