Indiana

Dueling Lawyers

By Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

Marion County Prosecutor Republican candidate Mark Massa said today incumbent Carl Brizzi should step down due the recent controversies surrounding the office.  Below is Brizzi’s full response.

I am shocked and surprised by today?s event, which appears to be politically motivated.

I learned of the news conference by the Republican candidate for Marion County Prosecutor via the Internet and e-mails. Currently, I am on vacation in California and have not spoken to the candidate or any representative of the Republican Party in Indiana about this matter. I am disappointed that he would conduct a political campaign stunt like this.

I am the first to admit I have made some mistakes in my personal life, none of which adversely affect the Office of the Marion County Prosecutor. Our conviction rates are among the highest in the country, and we have increased the collection of child support for Marion County children by almost 50 percent (more than $104 million) since I took office. I have faithfully executed the duties of Marion County Prosecutor and have no intention of resigning. In fact, I have further intensified my focus on protecting our citizens from violent criminals and those who would prey on the most vulnerable members of our society during the months remaining in my term.

In my seven years as prosecutor, I have dealt effectively with real crimes, real victims and real personal threats and remain steadfast in denying the spate of irresponsible and malicious accusations directed at me and the Office of Marion County Prosecutor.

Instead of adding to rumor mongering of politics or allowing innuendo to substitute for fact, I believe it is in the best interest of our community to focus on real-world issues, such as the safety of our residents and the effective prosecution of criminals.

Full post as published by Indiana Barrister on April 07, 2010 (boomark / email).