DIVISIONS AND UNITS

The DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office operates through specialized units of attorneys and staff, each dedicated to specific types of criminal activity. These units concentrate on particular areas of law enforcement, gaining expertise in investigating and prosecuting criminals accused of those specific criminal offenses. The following provides an overview of the divisions within the office responsible for conducting criminal investigations and prosecutions.

VIOLENT CRIME DIVISION

 

Bringing justice to individuals who take the lives of others or cause severe bodily harm to our citizens is a great responsibility shouldered by the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office.  Our office assigns its most experienced prosecutors to handle all cases involving homicides and violent crimes, tirelessly seeking justice for the victims, their families, and loved ones.  With resolute determination, the DeSoto County District Attorney’s Office vigorously prosecutes all instances of violent crime, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable within the bounds of the law.  This commitment serves to deliver justice to the victims and fosters a safer and more secure future for the community as a whole.

SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT

 

The Special Victims Unit is responsible for overseeing the prosecution of Domestic Violence cases and Severe Child Abuse cases.  Collaborating closely with crime victims, the Unit strives to support families in breaking the cycle of abuse while upholding their dignity and respect.  Our mission is to empower crime victims by educating them about their rights while simultaneously pursuing aggressive prosecution against their offenders.

 

CHECK ENFORCEMENT UNIT

 

The Check Enforcement Unit offers assistance to merchants and citizens dealing with transactions in DeSoto County, aiding in the recovery of checks returned due to non-sufficient funds or closed accounts.  This statutorily established unit, also known as the Bad Check Unit, is self-sustaining and is funded exclusively by service charges recovered from defendants when payment of restitution is made through our office.  Our Bad Check Coordinator collaborates closely with
merchants and citizens to pursue prosecution in these instances.

FORFEITURE UNIT

 

This unit manages the seizure of property from all police departments and the Sheriff Department in DeSoto County. It deals primarily with seized items such as weapons, controlled substances, U.S. currency, and vehicles. 

ADULT FELONY INTERVENTION COURT

 

Adult Felony Intervention Court operates as a specialized court tasked with handling cases involving drug-using, non-violent offenders. It employs comprehensive supervision, drug testing, treatment services, and immediate sanctions and incentives. Our office actively collaborates with and supports the DeSoto County Circuit Adult Felony Intervention Court as part of the court’s mission to administer a judicially-monitored treatment regimen and provide intensive supervision to substance-abusing offenders. This approach offers a cost-effective alternative to incarceration while promoting family and community values. Participants in the Adult Felony Intervention Court undergo long-term treatment and counseling, face sanctions and incentives, and attend frequent court appearances. Successful completion of the program may lead to dismissal of charges, reduced or set-aside sentences, lesser penalties, or a combination thereof. Importantly, graduating participants acquire the necessary tools to rebuild their lives.

PRE-TRIAL DIVERSION UNIT

 

The Pre-Trial Diversion program offers first-time, non-violent offenders the chance to avoid a criminal record upon successful completion of specific goal-oriented conditions. This diversion initiative yields advantages for participants, the community, the courts, and correctional facilities by alleviating costs on the judicial system and reducing recidivism rates.  Through tailored programs designed to address individual needs, the program delivers education and tools to offenders, empowering them to enhance their contributions to society and lead more productive lives.

PUBLIC CORRUPTION DIVISION

 

This Division consists of seasoned prosecutors and investigators with deep expertise in managing intricate criminal cases.  Specializing in public corruption, fraud, bribery, and embezzlement, the team dedicates its efforts to combatting these offenses.  Additionally, the Division pursues individuals who employ fraudulent business tactics or abuse positions of authority to deceive citizens and unlawfully acquire their money through sophisticated financial schemes.

 

Last Edited: November 14, 2020