Happy New Year from the Douglas County District Attorney
It’s hard to believe my first year in office has nearly passed. Throughout 2021, the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office has worked to reduce the criminal justice footprint for all, increase office transparency and ensure justice for all communities.
Since the Douglas County District Court resumed jury trials in April, this office has seen convictions for cases that include gun violence, crimes against children and sexual assaults. We have sought justice and supported victims who endured trauma.
But we also have pursued alternatives to incarceration for many, actively participating in both Drug Court and Behavioral Health Court and pursuing a Restorative Justice program. We take a holistic approach to everyone who comes through the criminal justice system. Our robust diversion and pretrial release programs keep people out of jail.
As public servants, the District Attorney’s Office must work in transparency. Shortly after I took office, I initiated an effort to create a data dashboard, which launched in September. In addition to providing this data to the public, we will examine this information internally to better understand our impact on the criminal justice system.
We also hired a public information officer — a first for the DA’s Office. The PIO helps to provide information about the activities of the DA’s Office through media releases, social media and public outreach. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram at @dgcoksda.
Obviously the work of this office is ongoing, and in 2022 we continue to face cases that are important to this community. We are committed to serving Douglas County and pursuing justice for both victims and defendants.
Going forward, this blog will provide transparency into the work of our skilled, compassionate and dedicated team of administrative staff, trial assistants, victim witness coordinators and attorneys.
It is an honor to serve Douglas County to help create a safe and just community for all. Happy New Year!
