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?