From Staff Reports

Courtroom No. 5 in the Shelby County courthouse was alight last Wednesday with a large group of local government leaders, law enforcement officers and visitors, but it wasn’t the kind of event the courtroom typically hosts.
Rather than arguing his case in front of a judge and jury, outgoing Shelby County District Attorney Robby Owens spent time visiting with those whose lives he has touched over his 31 years as a prosecutor – including his past 22 years in Shelby County. Several agencies and individuals honored Owens with awards and plaques, giving a small glimpse into the impact Owens has had during his many years of service.
“The three P’s, personal, professional and political and you have been every one of those and I really do appreciate it,” Shelby County Sheriff Chris Curry said during the ceremony. “Our plaque says ‘In honor and recognition of an excellent career filled with pride, dedication and superb ability.’”
Owens has had a tremendous impact on Shelby County during his time here, and we applaud his efforts to make Shelby County one of the safest counties in Alabama.
But no matter how many criminals Owens and his office have brought to justice over the past few decades, one of Owens’ projects will have a lasting effect on several generations of Shelby County residents.
Eleven years ago, Owens founded the nonprofit organization Owens House.
Owens House is an effort to coordinate the Shelby County community’s response to child abuse.
Designed to be a safe and friendly environment for any child who walks through the doors, everything at Owens House conveys the child is important and respected by the adults who work there.
Children who take part in the Owens House programs are counseled to overcome the hardships they’ve faced in their lives, and come through the program better able to cope with what they’ve experienced in the past.
Since its founding in 1993, Owens House has helped countless children escape what could have otherwise been tragic situations at home or in their communities.
Mr. Owens, thank you for your service to Shelby County. You have made our home a better place.