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I have been extremely fortunate to work in two dynamic jobs – the United States Army and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Having served two tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I have had the opportunity to work with outstanding Americans from all over the country in combating terrorism. As an ASA, I have had the chance to represent victims of violent crime in their efforts to hold criminals responsible for their actions and help in building stronger, safer communities.

I have served as an Assistant State’s Attorney for 14 years and as an Army officer for 22 years. I became a prosecutor because I had always sought a public service career – and representing those who had been the victims of crime is the most rewarding opportunity in law.  It has exposed me to people from across Cook County, their problems and the need to hold criminals responsible. It has pushed me and made me a better lawyer and a person. I think that veterans are especially qualified to be prosecutors because as a veteran, you have already chosen a public service career and being a prosecutor is an outstanding opportunity to continue serving the public. A prosecutor’s office must reflect its entire community. Veterans are an important part of that community – especially since they represent all groups in that society.  They bring their own unique perspective and experience to the job of being a prosecutor.  In some ways, deploying overseas has increased my understanding of the importance of a justice system that is free from bias and law enforcement that treats all groups fairly.   In Iraq, that is part of our effort to build a representative government.  It is just as important here to maintain the connection here.