Lake County can’t afford business as usual in the fight against crime. That’s why I am supporting Steve Brown for district attorney.

Steve is a successful private practice attorney who will bring new ideas and strong crime fighting leadership to the DA’s office. He will ensure that serious criminals do not escape jail time for their offenses. Steve will make sure that criminal cases are prosecuted on the merits with no special treatment given to offenders who have personal ties to the current leadership of the DA’s office.

I’ve observed the frustration of many local deputies and police officers as criminals that they have arrested are let back out on the streets without even a trial.

It is the job of law enforcement to investigate crimes and send them to the DA’s office for prosecution. When the law enforcement officers work hard to conduct complete investigations and the cases are pled down or dropped completely, it is very frustrating.

This has to change because the way it has been is not working. Cases are reduced or dropped at the expense of the public. It is the responsibility of the DA to make sure the criminals are prosecuted for their crimes.

Lake County needs to combat crime and make our communities safer. Please join me in voting for Steve Brown for district attorney on June 5.

Gary Frace lives in Lakeport, Calif.