Alameda County is our home. We all want safe neighborhoods for our families. And we know that more incarceration and punishment does not keep us safe.
The District Attorney has tremendous power to impact the lives of thousands of people, their families, and entire communities. If someone is accused of committing a crime, the DA can decide if criminal charges are filed, how severe those charges are, and whether to recommend a diversion program instead.
The District Attorney is elected by voters. That means we can elect leaders who want to transform our criminal justice system – from one that further criminalizes us to one that provides compassionate alternatives to incarceration.
Voters have the power to support leaders who promote alternatives to incarceration, end the practice of charging youth as adults, and fight for investments in our community. What keeps us safe is deep investment in prevention – mental health services, drug treatment, support for victims, reentry etc – as well as long-term support.