HENNEPIN COUNTY ATTORNEY

MARTHA HOLTON DIMICK

Vying for this position are Martha Holton Dimick and Mary Moriarty.

Posted

marthaforhennepin.com
Martha Holton Dimick is a retired judge and is running for Hennepin County Attorney to rebuild trust and restore effectiveness into the county attorney’s office. She served as the first Northside community prosecutor at Hennepin County and worked as the criminal deputy in the Minneapolis City Attorney’s Office, where she managed over 60 attorneys and staff. "I love my neighborhood in north Minneapolis and I have grown to love Hennepin County during this campaign," she said. "My top priority is redressing the increase in crime that we have seen since 2020, and restoring public safety for all who live and work here."
What do you propose to manage public safety and rising crime rates?
The research shows that when more public safety officers are on the streets – both police and alternative responders – we reduce both crime and eventually incarceration rates. As prosecutors, we can partner with cities to enforce consistent penalties for violent and repeat offenders, and ensure police misconduct results in discipline.
How do you view child protection and support cases?
Child protection is an important part of our office. There are well-known inequalities resulting from cultural barriers between the office and community members. We must continue working toward family reunification when it’s safe and appropriate, and continue lobbying for critical funding to ensure family resources are available and effective.
How will you address the public’s changing opinions on criminal justice reform?
I believe public safety should take precedence over public opinion. Outdated policies like incarcerating low-level drug offenders do not make anyone safer. We must dedicate resources to bolstering alternatives to incarceration for low-level and first-time offenders because those alternatives work. My office will deal with everyone equally, compassionately, and with dignity.
How do you view the use of juvenile diversion and restorative justice programs?
We need rehabilitative programs that will treat juvenile offenders, but especially preventative programs that intervene before the first act of violence occurs. It makes no sense to punish kids for their entire lives for a mistake when they were young. Programs and personnel that treat children with mental health issues are sorely needed and will be an emphasis of my administration.
How will you address equity issues in prosecution?
Regaining trust in the community starts with prioritizing equity in prosecution and in hiring a diverse group of attorneys. Many people who come through the justice system have committed a serious crime and are a clear danger to society. Many are not. Prosecutors have discretion and need to apply it equitably for the system to be fair.

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here