WHAT DOES A STATE'S ATTORNEY DO?
CHIEF LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER
While the police investigate and charge most crimes, it is the State's Attorney who decides whether those charges will be brought to court and what an appropriate result should be. The State's Attorney has multiple roles in seeking justice — which include advocating for victims of crime in court, as well as ensuring that any person accused of a crime is treated fairly and their rights are protected. The State's Attorney ultimately represents the interests of the community.
COMMUNITY PARTNER
A State's Attorney’s job is not restricted to the courtroom — most are active within their communities, working to create opportunities to improve public safety. This can involve partnering with organizations across the county to inform citizens about issues such as crime prevention, personal safety, mental health and substance abuse treatment. The State's Attorney also works to rehabilitate those affected by crime in our communities, which can involve drug courts, substance abuse treatment programs, counseling, restitution, community service, mediation and other community-based programs.
PUBLIC SAFETY
A State's Attorney plays a key role in deciding how crime ought to be addressed in the county. They work to set the tone for how we handle serious felonies, and devote county resources to prosecute criminals involved in sexual assault, domestic violence, gun violence and drug offenses. The State's Attorney holds violent and repeat offenders of these crimes accountable and seeks incarceration where appropriate in order to protect the community. For those offenses that are non-violent or committed by youthful offenders, the State's Attorney may recommend rehabilitation rather than incarceration.
WHY ANNE IS RIGHT FOR THE JOB
Anne Colt Leitess is an effective prosecutor with over 25 years of experience. She worked her way up from traffic court to become the first woman to lead the Violent Crimes Unit. She’s prosecuted complex cases involving violent crimes, and successfully convicted serial rapists and murderers. Anne was appointed by a nonpartisan panel of judges to serve as State’s Attorney from 2013 to 2015.
