22. Laura Ahearn

As founder and executive director of one of the most prominent vic- tims’ advocacy organizations on Long Island, one that also reaches nationwide, Ahearn diligently leads Parents for Megan’s Law (PFML). Her organization is frequently seen in the media, calling for stronger penalties for crimes committed by pedophiles, rapists and all the worst society has to offer. PFML also keeps an online database that lists level 2 and 3 sex offenders who have been released on Long Island. The figurehead for the Stony Brook-based group also assists victims through a support network of advocates who guide them through the system. Ahearn claims as a victory new state laws governing sex offenders, but is still fighting for tracking devices to become the standard statewide.