The job of the district attorney is broader than simply securing convictions. It also is about seeking justice -- for the state, the victim and the public at large. Incumbent 1st Judicial District Attorney Angela "Spence" Pacheco understands this.
Going in, Pacheco knew that seeking justice would be difficult because the office she inherited was behind the times -- cases were not stored electronically, for example, making it nearly impossible to get a handle on the office workload. To make reports, lawyers would hand-count folders. Record-keeping was imprecise and sloppy.
In four years, Pacheco has updated the system. Evidence for discovery is available to both defense attorneys and prosecutors online, eliminating that popular excuse, "they didn't share the evidence with us" and avoiding delays in trials. Pacheco also has set up a public integrity unit, which prosecuted fraud because of embezzlement at the Jemez school district and in Santa Fe County in connection with the Advantag ... Read more >>
Editorial: Our endorsements for county offices
Santa Fe County Commission, District 2: Chavez
The race to replace outgoing Santa Fe County Commissioner Virginia Vigil is a three-way contest, with a former city councilor vying against a lawyer and a retired county employee. All have strengths.
... Read more >>
Editorial: For the PRC: Virginia Vigil
It's hard to look at the candidates running for the Public Regulation Commission District 3 seat and not feel more than a twinge of regret.
Current District 3 Commissioner Douglas Howe, appointed by Gov. Susana Martinez, decided that he couldn't be ... Read more >>
Editorial: For U.S. Senate: Balderas, Wilson
The Democratic primary race to replace retiring Sen. Jeff Bingaman is a cordial one, with both State Auditor Hector Balderas and U.S. Rep. Martin Heinrich saving their punches for Republicans, rather than damaging each other. That's probably wise, be ... Read more >>
Editorial: ENDORSEMENTS: For N.M. Senate and N.M. House ...
One of the more interesting aftermaths of the 2012 election will be what happens with the New Mexico Legislature. Incumbents are retiring, others are being challenged, and when the dust settles come November, government in Santa Fe will not be the sa ... Read more >>
Editorial: Get ready, it's election season
Primary election season is in full swing -- forums, door-to-door visits from candidates and, starting tomorrow, early voting begins in satellite locations across New Mexico. Already, absentee voters have been requesting ballots or stopping by county ... Read more >>
Editorial: Don't miss out on city attractions
Santa Fe residents sometimes take for granted our world-class cultural attractions. Just to focus on one area -- museums -- can be overwhelming. With more than half a dozen top-notch museums, the variety and depth of the offerings almost make it simp ... Read more >>
Letters to the editor
Need fresh face on County Commission
Comments: (0)
Maria-Ester DeAnda Hay is the most qualified candidate in District 2 for the County Commission. I have worked with her for more than 25 years and continue to be impressed with her honesty, integrity and understanding of the issues affecting both the ... Read more>>
My view. Reader Op-eds
MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM AND DEBORAH ARMSTRONG
Keep Rep. Salazar as champion of seniors
TOM MACH
Women's war goes on in voting booths
DR. CHRISTOPHER STANLEY AND B.J. DAVIS
Obesity calls for early intervention
LAUREN SARKISSIAN
City teens lead Hooked on Books project
ESTHER GARCIA
Bill preserves unique landscape
CAROL G. WINKEL
Bridge Academy fit bill for choice and quality in education
ATTORNEY GENERAL GARY K. KING
Reauthorize Senate version
of violence protection law
N.M. HOUSE SPEAKER BEN LUJAN
Strong, experienced leadership needed in House District 46
STANLEY ROSEBUD ROSEN
Candidates shouldn't dismiss importance of forums to voters
LORRAINE GOLDMAN
Officials confused about superintendent needs
ROBERT SLUSHER
State needs to free up money to help people meet real needs
JUDITH BROPHY
Garden bridge would transform intersection
