For the past near 18 years, I have carved a path in the criminal justice system. First, serving as a prosecutor in Municipal and Superior Court, then as a public defender in the Superior Court of DeKalb County. This experience has enabled me to not only use common sense in applying the law to the facts of each case individually, but also understand how a judicial decision will affect the persons appearing before me.
I have a proven track record of being an effective felony trial lawyer on both sides of the bar, having tried numerous felony cases, such as murders, rapes, aggravated child molestations, armed robberies, home invasions.
I understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and the contributing factors that can lead one down the path of crime. In this vane, I will ensure that violent, repeat offenders receive an appropriate sentence that serves not only as a deterrent to others, but also keeps the citizens of DeKalb County safe.
Additionally, I will utilize the services available to assist youthful non-violent offenders and veterans, suffering with drug or alcohol addiction or mental conditions, to rehabilitate the offenders while they are under sentence and help them learn new or better coping skills for the long term.
I have seen more youthful violent offenders coming into the criminal justice system and I realize that we cannot keep doing the same thing repeatedly and expect a different result. As your Superior Court Judge I will work with community stakeholders as much as I am able to, to educate the youth about crime & punishment, how they can be treated as adults for certain types of crimes, even though they are juveniles.
While in private practice I handled various matters to include legitimations, TPO hearings, uncontested divorces, contract disputes, personal injury matters & indigent criminal defense. I also represented individuals in Immigration Court who were seeking asylum or facing deportation.
As your DeKalb County Superior Court Judge, I will:
- Be respectful of the citizens of the County regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, nationality or socio-economic status.
- Ensure that violent & repeat offenders receive sentences that send a message to would be followers and keep DeKalb County residents’ safe.
- Utilize resources as necessary to provide assistance to young non-violent offenders & veterans suffering with drug addiction & mental conditions.
- Ensure that cases are resolved in a timely manner.
