I have a great deal of respect for what law enforcement does and I work with them every day. I work WITH law enforcement, not FOR law enforcement.

My independence allowed me to be able to prosecute and convict Blue Lake Chief Gunderson of multiple felonies including illegal weapon possession. The District Attorney represents the People of the State of California. Above all else, the District Attorney must promote the fair, impartial and expeditious pursuit of justice it is important for me to keep my distance from everyone because anyone can commit a crime and it is my job to prosecute them.

The American Bar Association Model Rules of Professional Conduct state that: “A prosecutor has the responsibility of a minister of justice and not simply that of an advocate. This responsibility carries with it the specific obligation to see that the defendant is accorded procedural justice and that guilt is decided upon sufficient evidence.” The American Bar Association Standards for Criminal Justice state, “The duty of a prosecutor is to seek justice, not merely to convict.” Therefore, the ideal relationship between the District Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Department is one of independence, while both continue working together to promote public safety.