To the editor: I am proud to endorse Mike Thurston for district attorney. Mike Thurston is a trusted name in law enforcement. Mike has been endorsed by the law enforcement community of SMÌìµØÂÛ̳ County, which includes Sheriff Eric Severson, former Sheriff Dan Trawicki, SMÌìµØÂÛ̳ County Police Chief’s Association which representing 26 departments, SMÌìµØÂÛ̳ County Deputy Sheriff's Union, and former District Attorney Paul Bucher, as well as numerous community leaders.
Mike is an outstanding attorney and excellent prosecutor fighting to protect our families and the challenges to keep our communities safe every day. Mike has integrity, is a wonderful family man with Christian beliefs.
Our current D.A., Susan Opper, who has had an outstanding legal career as a prosecutor, not only hired Mike, she promoted him to a management position as a deputy D.A. in charge of the Sensitive Crimes and Domestic Violence Unit. Mike is aggressive in handling complex cases and has had over 80 jury trials.
Mike’s opponent has tried to associate him with the horrific tragedy of the SMÌìµØÂÛ̳ Christmas Parade (supported policies that led to the Christmas Parade tragedy). She brings the clearly unrealistic, false assertion to a whole new level.
Mike’s opponent has over 100 drug cases under review, that go back to 2019. Mike has stated he has recently reported only one case under review.
As to bail reform and public safety trust: Mike has been a champion for bail reform. Mike worked diligently with Rep. Cindi Duchow for six years. Mike testified in Madison several times to help with the change. Mike helped with the constitutional amendment that was approved by the voters by 67%. The courts can now consider a defendant’s dangerousness when setting bail. Mike is making sure criminals don’t get off with a slap on the wrist.
Please look at the facts, not the negative political ads.
I encourage you to vote Mike Thurston to the office of district attorney Aug. 13.
— Arnold Moncada Jr.