Maggie Fleming Campaign Kickoff today

Maggie Fleming had her campaign kickoff today in front of the courthouse. Close to 100 people are here to support Maggie.  At times, cars and trucks honked in support as Maggie spoke.

Before Maggie spoke, Jimmy Smith, Linda Atkins and Rex Bohn spoke about why they are supporting her. A diverse crowd consisting of law enforcement, attorneys, educators, businessman, and representatives from various political affiliations were present.

"The District Attorney's office is not partisan," said Maggie during her speech, "it has recently become very politicized. Effective prosecution is not about partisan politics.We need an experienced, professional and independent DA."

Ryan Burns from Lost Coast Outpost and Robyn from Channel 3 were present among other media and I am sure Ryan will have video and detailed coverage up shortly.  Ryan's note taking abilities are supreme and he is very detailed. I will add some highlights and coverage myself soon.

Updated:

Among the many gathered today to support Maggie were Eureka Mayor Jager Eureka City Councilmembers Chet Albin, Linda Atkins, and Melinda Ciarabellini, Supervisor Rex Bohn, former 2nd District Supervisor Jimmy Smith, local attorney Kathleen Bryson, Pete Ciarabellini, Suzie Owsley, Max Cardoza, Milt Boyd, Judy Bennett.

Jimmy Smith was the first speaker, "I am here todat to say a couple of words about a lady I met a few years ago," referring to Maggie. Jimmy said he has worked with 3 District Attorney's, 2 in Humboldt County.

"Maggie is universally respected by all legal entities in the system," said Jimmy. "Unprecendented respect are words I would use about Maggie. She is team oriented, so intelligent...caring, a leader and determined..." Jimmy said in his opinion Maggie is the person so committed and the person who will protect and defend this community.

"Effective and experienced prosecutor, " said Linda. "Integrity and fairness...will rise above our community's political differences to address what faces our community."

"What a diverse crowd, " said Rex. "This is a non-partisan race. Regardless of what party you belong to, no one is happy with the crime level we are facing."  Rex ended his remarks by introducing Maggie as "our next District Attorney."

Highlights of Maggie's speech:

Has done over 120 jury trials.  "Community rpresented by a jury should decide innocence or guilt; true justice is not decided by opinion of one individual (DA)." The last statement was in reference to Maggie mentioning that as DA she would base her charging decisions on all the information provided.

Some of her plans for the office include: creating an atmosphere where hard work, knowledge of law, colloboration are pervasive, recruiting and retraining good people, accessibility and clear communication from the DA's office (to the public and other agencies).

"Prevention is better than dealing with after the fact," said Maggie and that she would spend "great energy on crime prevention." Referring to those affected by drug use and suffering from mental health issues, Maggie said, "Incarceration of these individuals does not benefit them and the community. These people will receive treatment as part of their sentencing."