As we wind our way toward the May elections, many believe the outcome will be very predictable for most of the races.  With an overwhelming city Democrat registration advantage, an off-year election, and the likelihood of victory for the machine endorsed candidates in the air, this might seem to be another ho-hum election, regardless of the fact that a federal investigation into fraud and misuse of taxpayer dollars is ongoing, and expanding.

 

However, one grass roots Democrat maverick is taking on the long-established, but sometimes controversial office of our current District Attorney, Lynn Abraham. Northwest Philadelphia ’s 9^th and 22^nd Wards were visited over the last two weeks and given stirring presentations, complete with graphics, by Seth Williams, former Assistant District Attorney, and long-term critic of the power and administrative structure he worked within as Chief of the Repeat Offender’s Unit.

 

Although not cited in any of the ongoing federal investigations into corruption in city government, the District Attorney’s Office should not be exempt from the microscope, particularly as the violent crime rate escalates and there is talk of bringing in outside law enforcement to effect remedies.  What may be needed is fresh look into how the prosecution of crime works in relation to both individual perpetrators and their networks.  Fear of gang related crime and its threatening power structure is a long-understood fact of life in many Philadelphia neighborhoods. Experience and statistics seem to point to failure on both levels.

 

Williams data cites Lynn Abraham as going on the record that “they don’t keep statistics” as far as crime reduction numbers are concerned.  One general statistic we have all heard over and over again is that a substantial proportion of the violent crime in this city and surrounding areas is perpetrated by the same individuals, often released right back to the same malevolent culture geared to their return and business as usual.  Put yourself in the position of a nearby neighbor who has watched this turnstyle justice and who views law enforcement as remote in both presence and perspective.

 

Seth Williams has published a compelling document entitled “Community Based Prosecution” which is available at www.Seth4DA.com and is a worthwhile read for all concerned with learning how our centralized Justice System in Philadelphia operates, and where it needs redirection.  In my view we have for too long tried only to contain crime rather than take down the source elements which only move it around; often one step ahead of enforcement. An intimidated population provides few willing witnesses and cooperation with law enforcement has become a dangerous commitment.  In practical terms over 50% of all felonies are thrown out for lack of prosecution, most often for the inability to produce witnesses; according to William’s documentation.

 

Restructuring the DA’s Office more parallel with neighborhoods and police districts and divisions makes sense to Williams, with individual Assistant DAs assigned regionally. From that vantage point they would be more available to the community by following cases and interviewing witnesses early on with a team approach through to trial. Under the present system, victims and witnesses re-tell their experience over and over again to multiple individuals, some of whom may never directly communicate on case details until the 11^th hour.  He makes the point that many witnesses are not contacted until the day before trial under the present system. 

 

Is Seth Williams’ approach a cure all?  I am not sure there is such a thing, but it is a program that has been effective elsewhere and in my view is a logical approach to the needs of a system that has not provided adequate lifestyle protection. First, we owe our citizens better, secondly, if we want to replace our lost industries with a viable tourist business we have to stay off the national front pages covering a government structure under criminal investigation and violent crime out of control.

 

The time has come for Philadelphians to reject the “same old” politics and government.  Seth Williams has a populist approach and the personal appeal of an individual with conviction.  He was born here, raised here and lives here. He answers the tough questions without hesitation, and has made a serious personal commitment without the help of the political machine. His support team includes others with experience in the DA’s office and dedicated volunteers. He is making presentations throughout the city virtually every day until the election.  I suggest that all readers take the time to learn about this man, his proposals, and vote accordingly.  By now we should all realize that the status quo is not good enough for our city.

 

Jim Foster

Mt. Airy