Stand against injustice: Stop the DA’s unwarranted public attacks

This pattern of public denunciation not only undermines the principle of “innocent until proven guilty” but also exposes defendants to public prejudice, intensifying the challenges they face within the justice system.

One particular case deserves our immediate attention. A 17-year-old Hispanic male, resident of Redwood City, teenager, who recently graduated from high school, made a juvenile mistake that caused an accident, like many of us have done. But this one was tragic and he has been subject to an incessant stream of disparaging comments and insinuations by the DA in the media. 

This tactic effectively tries him in the court of public opinion before he ever enters a courtroom, eroding his right to a fair trial. 

I believe that the District Attorney’s Office’s behavior represents an abuse of power and an ongoing injustice. It is time for our community to demand change. I, and we all should, call on all residents, advocacy groups and, especially, our elected officials to take a stand. 

By standing together, we can foster a system that respects every citizen’s right to a fair trial, protects personal safety, and upholds the fundamental principles of justice. 

Sincerely,

Jim Lawrence

Foster City

The letter writer is the former mayor of Foster City.