Shawn Dick
Experience: prosecutor in Williamson County District Attorney’s Office, prosecutor and defense attorney for more than 20 years
Why are you running for district attorney?
We need to restore integrity, respect and professionalism to the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office. Recently the DA’s office became a source of embarrassment to the people of Williamson County. As a result, numerous individuals requested I run for DA in order to restore professionalism to a broken system.
What makes you qualified for this position?
I personally handled over 10,000 criminal cases and over 100 jury trials. My balanced perspective results from 20 years’ experience equally divided between prosecuting and defending while achieving accolades from both. I am board certified in criminal law by the [Texas Board of Legal Specialization], an honor earned by less than 2 percent of attorneys.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
The main issue is a lack of public trust in our justice system. Our current district attorney’s actions have embarrassed our residents. They are fed up with political egos and disrespect. I will establish integrity and accountability in the DA’s office while bringing experience, professionalism and respect to the system.
Jana Duty (incumbent)
Experience: prosecutor, Williamson County attorney for seven years, elected Williamson County district attorney in 2012
Why are you running for district attorney?
I was elected to clean house and reform a corrupt office that put politics and personal agendas ahead of justice. Under my leadership, prosecutions are up, convictions are up and plea deals are tougher than ever before. I am running for re-election to continue seeking justice for victims of crime.
What makes you qualified for this position?
I am qualified for this position because I will do whatever it takes to keep Williamson County families safe. It has been my solemn duty to protect our community from criminals; first as our elected county attorney, and for the last four years as our district attorney.
What are the top issues the county is currently facing?
The top issue the county is facing as it pertains to public safety is who do we trust to prosecute criminals, negotiate tough plea deals and keep Williamson County safe: A career prosecutor or a man who represents heinous criminals for a living, including those who prey on children?
Candidates' responses were edited for space.
