LETTER FROM ERICA

I am grateful and honored to be the Bennington County State’s Attorney. This community has been my home for almost 40 years and being able to work in public service here is my life’s work. I have been able to develop an energetic, professional office of attorneys, victim advocates, investigators and support staff.

We work to maintain transparency through open, honest communication and represent the values of Bennington County residents. As the county State’s Attorney we are responsible for all of the towns between Pownal and East Dorset, Winhall, Rupert and Woodford. The State’s Attorney works closely with law enforcement but is not an arm of law enforcement. My office holds law enforcement to a high standard and expects that everyone be treated equally and with respect.

My philosophy of public safety is not tied to a particular political party, but rooted in the fair administration of justice. Although I consider the values of the community that elected me, it is imperative that I help the system evolve in ways that further raise the standards of fairness. Working to understand how different social, cultural and economic groups are impacted by the criminal justice system is just the beginning. Exploring potential solutions and how best to effect change within the system is important and the State’s Attorney is uniquely situated to move the system forward.