What are the immediate challenges you face in your new position?

We have to reduce violent crime in Jackson County. There are some exciting things happening in our community—new construction and development downtown, new businesses locating here. If we want to see this investment succeed, we need to make sure our community is safe and secure.

How about long-term priorities?

We need to work closely with leaders and entities in the public and private sectors to address the needs of the working poor in inner city neighborhoods. That’s where we can make a difference in people’s lives by preventing crime.

Fighting crime requires a multi-faceted strategy—vigorous law enforcement, deterrence, diversion and prevention. You need all of those to succeed.

Do you have the resources you need to do all of those things?

We’re fortunate to have the COMBAT tax here in Jackson County, which provides us with the means to stay ahead of the curve and to aggressively attack the problem of drug crime.

Our drug court is supported with COMBAT funds, and frankly, I think it’s one of the most effective programs we have. First-time drug offenders are given the option of participating in classes and counseling that will give them tools they need to put their lives back together, to set themselves straight. They’re given job training, anger management techniques, and other help, all strictly supervised. It’s a tough program, but when you attend drug court graduation ceremonies, you’re struck by how grateful these individuals are to have been given a second chance.

Having grown up in Kansas City dreaming of a career in law enforcement, how did it feel to take the oath of office as Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney?

Very gratifying. Especially to have family and friends there. But it was also quite humbling.

How do you spend your time when you’re not fighting crime?

Well, this is a demanding job. Lots of hours. So when I’m home I like to spend my time with my wife and two small sons. Just family things—sports and school activities.

What are the personal principles you try to live by?

It’s something I’ve thought a lot about over the years. I call it the “courage of integrity.” I always try to choose right over wrong, ethics over convenience, truth over popularity.