Candidate for
District Attorney; County of San Diego

Public Safety is a top priority for most elected officials --and it will be MY FIRST responsibility as District Attorney. That is why 98% of the associations representing law enforcement officers in San Diego County have endorsed me --because they are tired of a District Attorney who puts politics before public safety.

As your next District Attorney, I will be an impartial guardian of the public's trust and safety. My experience as a young officer in the United States Army allowed me to serve my country and become a leader under trying circumstances. Though I'm proud of my medals for heroism, the most important trait I gained from serving in combat in Vietnam was an abiding desire for public service.

After law school at the University of San Diego, I decided to become a Deputy District Attorney. In 1975, I was hired as a prosecutor with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office and 3 years later I became an Assistant United States Attorney. During my prosecutorial career I was honored to have tried 60 cases on behalf of our community.

How will I translate these life lessons into my vision of a strong, independent District Attorney's Office? Here's my vision of an office that puts public safety first, not politics:

Prosecutorial discretion in the filing of cases, dispositions and trial/appellate practice will be conducted with the highest ethical standards and consistent with the office's obligation to pursue justice.

I will not run for any other office. I would never use such an important public safety position as a stepping stone to further personal political ambitions. I will not endorse political candidates for office. The District Attorney should stay out of local politics, except to investigate, if necessary.

I will build my management team from within the office. Transfers will not be made to retaliate or for punitive reasons. Employees, along with their supervisors, will have input in decisions affecting the location of their assignment.

I will strive to have transparent management and openly communicate all policies and guidelines and honestly respond to all reasonable inquiries.

Employees at all levels will be treated fairly with respect to job assignment and promotion, which will be based on merit and productivity, after consultation with supervisors, without regard to friendships, political connections or arbitrary categories. Clerical staff will have appropriate avenues of advancement and promotional opportunities.

Now, I seek your support to become a new leader for the community and law enforcement. On June 3rd, you can join with over 98% of local law enforcement groups, former United States Attorneys, retired and current Deputy District Attorneys, County Probation Officers, and community members in voting for me to be your next District Attorney.