Priorities

Ensure Public Safety

Public safety is the foundation of a strong community. Therefore, accountability must be strengthened, and prevention must be prioritized. Violent and repeat offenders will be held fully accountable under the law. As a result, consistent standards will be applied to better protect families and neighborhoods. At the same time, proven, data-driven strategies will be supported. In addition, resources will be focused where they work, coordination will be improved, and results will be measured.

Moreover, victims and their families deserve to be heard and respected. Throughout the process, they should be kept informed at every stage. Accordingly, victim safety and dignity will be prioritized in every courtroom decision. In addition, clear communication will be encouraged, and all parties will be treated with fairness and professionalism. Finally, partnerships with law enforcement, community organizations, and service providers will be strengthened so safer neighborhoods can be built and the public can be better protected.

Reduce Court Backlog

Our courts are overwhelmed. Consequently, justice is delayed for everyone. Victims are left waiting for closure. Families are left seeking answers. Defendants are left without timely decisions. Therefore, the court backlog must be reduced through stronger case management. In addition, scheduling expectations will be clarified, and coordination with attorneys, court staff, and stakeholders will be improved. As a result, cases can be tracked more effectively, bottlenecks can be identified earlier, and unnecessary delays can be reduced.

Furthermore, courtroom technology should be used more effectively to improve efficiency and access. For example, e-filing best practices can be encouraged. Likewise, virtual hearings can be used when appropriate. In addition, outdated processes can be modernized to reduce wasted time and resources. When cases are resolved promptly—through trial, hearing, or appropriate negotiated outcomes—less time is spent in limbo. Ultimately, a well-run court delivers faster, fairer, and more accessible justice, while public trust is strengthened and each case receives the attention it deserves.

Create a Youthful Offenders Court

Young people who enter the justice system must be held accountable. However, a real opportunity to change course should also be provided. Therefore, a Youthful Offenders Court should be created for eligible young adults. This court would be centered on rehabilitation, education, and mental health support. In addition, clear expectations would be set, and progress would be closely monitored. Too often, a first mistake is turned into a lifelong barrier. As a result, a specialized docket is needed so structured accountability can be combined with meaningful support.

In this model, evidence-based interventions would be prioritized. For example, counseling would be provided. Likewise, substance-use treatment would be offered when needed. In addition, mentorship, job training, and GED or college pathway support would be expanded, along with life-skills programs. Regular check-ins would be required, progress goals would be measured, and consequences would be enforced when compliance is not met. By addressing root causes—such as trauma, untreated mental health needs, addiction, unstable housing, and limited opportunity—repeat offenses can be reduced. Ultimately, families can be strengthened, public safety can be improved, and long-term results can be achieved.