Candidate for
District Attorney; County of El Dorado

The traditional role of the District Attorney has historically been limited to reviewing the reports submitted by law enforcement agencies and then prosecuting the appropriate cases in courts of law. Over the years, this role has evolved. Today, rather than just taking a reactive role to address crimes that have already been committed, a district attorney must become proactive to prevent crimes from occurring. Additionally, the district attorney is responsible for educating both the public and law enforcement officers on issues of relevant concern. This educational process requires a personal involvement of the district attorney in the community and a commitment to supporting and training law enforcement officers to ensure the utmost in public safety and professionalism.

My Accomplishments as District Attorney

Prior to 1994, the El Dorado County District Attorney's office was not evolving to proactively address the needs of this community. There were serious problems in terms of its poor service to law enforcement and the citizens of El Dorado County. My desire to resolve these problems led me to seek election as the District Attorney of El Dorado County after having spent nine years as a deputy district attorney. In 1994, I was elected as the District Attorney of El Dorado County. I was re-elected to my second term in 1998.

In the past seven years, since I was elected District Attorney, I have worked diligently to rebuild a relationship between the DA's office and law enforcement agencies, as well as improving the public safety services to the community. Opening the lines of communication and encouraging greater involvement of law enforcement officers in the prosecution effort have restored relations with local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, I have involved the District Attorney's office in providing in-service training to El Dorado County law enforcement officers, thereby enhancing the unity and professionalism of the departments.

I have endeavored to educate the public on aspects of the operations of the District Attorney's office and the operations of our local law enforcement agencies. Further, I have provided seminars to individuals and business owners on ways to protect themselves against fraud and theft. Additionally, I am a regular instructor for the Citizen's Academy on Law Enforcement sponsored by the El Dorado County Sheriff's Department and I speak regularly to service organizations in our county on crime related topics.

Public Safety Programs

Public safety services to the community have been improved through a number of programs I have instituted. Among these are programs providing outreach education and expanded services to victims and witnesses of crimes, specialized prosecution of elder abuse cases, child abuse cases, child abduction cases, domestic violence cases, and the sexual abuse of our youth. Further, I have initiated specialized training for the criminal investigators of the District Attorney's office for purposes of high-tech crimes investigations, which include child pornography, identity theft, and fraud.

Commitment to the Future

With changes in the demographics of El Dorado County, outside influences from the Sacramento-Metropolitan area, and the availability of technological means to commit crimes, the District Attorney's office must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the needs of the people of El Dorado County. I am committed to insuring these needs are properly met. I have the experience, character, and integrity to effectively discharge the duties and responsibilities of the Office of District Attorney. I have proven myself to be a leader in public safety, and will continue to uphold the trust of the citizens of El Dorado County.