Sexual and domestic violence is epidemic throughout Cook County, affecting people from all walks of life – particularly women and girls, people of color, immigrants, people with disabilities, and the LGBTQ community. The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office is the second largest in the country and is responsible for the prosecution of all misdemeanor and felony crimes committed in Cook County. Because the primary responsibility of the office is to prosecute crime, the Assistant State’s Attorneys in the office assist thousands of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking each year. The Cook County State’s Attorney has sole authority in the prosecution of these crimes as well as the ability to serve as the voice for victims of crime in Cook County. They are a leader in all issues related to the criminal justice system and have major responsibility for public safety as the chief law enforcement agent in Cook County.

Leaders and experts on gender-based violence from seven organizations including Life Span, asked candidates for the Office of the Cook County State’s Attorney about their plans for the following and more:

• The felony review process and efforts to ensure appropriate charging
• Response to sexual exploitation and prostitution related charges
• The use of self–defense by survivors of gender-based violence
• Data transparency
• Working with underserved communities such as communities of color, immigrant and LGBTQ communities.

We hope these questionnaires help inform your vote for the March 17th primary election. Candidates are listed in alphabetical order.