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Opinion

I spent my career fighting for victims; then I became one

Maricopa County prosecutor Linda Garcia shares how her uncle and step-aunt’s murders impacted her family and her work

OPINION — Before I ever stepped into a courtroom as a prosecutor, I served as a victim advocate. I counseled individuals, sat through hearings and supported families as they faced the deep pain caused by crimes against them or their loved ones.

That experience compelled me to do more. I left my position to attend law school so I could return to the courtroom — not just to observe, but to prosecute those responsible and stand up for victims before a judge.

Over my 18-year career as a prosecutor, I’ve handled cases ranging from property crimes to homicides. In each one, I’ve been guided by a single question: What would I want if I were the victim?

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