I will increase DA office revenues, improve operations
To the Editor:
I am running for Herkimer Co. District Attorney in the November election.
As a candidate, I have a specific platform for improvement in the District Attorney’s Office.
Unlike Herkimer County, many counties regularly confiscate money, equipment and vehicles used in drug crimes and other felonies. These “forfeitures” can be used by law enforcement to purchase equipment at no cost to the taxpayers.
Oneida County collects between $100,000 and $200,000 a year and over the past ten years has garnered over a million dollars in extra cash.
Herkimer County sentencing records show less than $2,500 in felony drug money this year.Our grant efforts need improvement. For counties our size, Herkimer County is near the bottom of the list for obtaining grants from New York State. Grants provide funds for training, personnel and equipment.
I also propose establishing a website. A website is inexpensive and keeps the public informed.
The DA’s Office has never had a website. I will have a website.
Further, improved communication with law enforcement is critical. Working together to prosecute drug crimes, child abuse and domestic violence improves our neighborhoods and our county.
I believe plea-bargaining is an issue in Herkimer County. The Herkimer County DA’s office has accepted plea or dismissed 99% of all County Court felony cases from January to August 2012, according to NYS records. There has been only one jury trial to verdict during this time period.
Sometimes, plea bargains aren’t real bargains for the victims.
I will be in Old Forge on Tuesday, October 23 and I am going door-to-door. I look forward to meeting some of you while I am there.
Sincerely yours,
Mary M. Iocovozzi
Candidate for Herkimer County District Attorney
