State's Attorney Devine Announces Election Plans
State’s Attorney Richard A. Devine announced Friday that he will not seek election next year for a fourth term as Cook County State’s Attorney.
Devine, 64, will be the longest serving State’s Attorney in Cook County since World War II.
“This is a job that I love and one that I will miss very much, “ Devine said. “But after three terms it is time to move on. M y plans are to continue to run this office with its proud tradition and great people in a professional manner.”
Devine was elected State’s Attorney in November 1996 and took office the following month. In the past two elections, Devine was endorsed by every major daily newspaper. He leaves a strong legacy of accomplishments. Devine has instituted nationally recognized programs in domestic violence, juvenile justice, narcotics prosecutions and diversion programs, and services to victims.
In recent years, Devine prosecuted mismanagement in the county’s POET program, brought charges against a south suburban school superintendent who pilfered hundreds of dollars and oversaw the prosecution of charges against more than 140 police officers. This is on top of the tens of thousands of violent crimes prosecuted by the office each year. Devine has personally prosecuted several cases, including the recent conviction of Juan Luna in the Brown’s Chicken murders.
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