Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker has been busy laying the groundwork for his term over the past 100 days. The County Attorney's Office has launched several initiatives aimed at both advancing justice and reinforcing public safety. Key efforts from their office include the establishment of a Cold Case Unit dedicated to resolving longstanding unsolved crimes and the creation of a Marijuana Expungement Program designed to clear records for those eligible, in an effort to help restore their opportunities.
According to the County Attorney's Office, other significant moves feature the co-founding of the North Star Task Force, prioritizing survivor-based approaches in the battle against human trafficking, and beginning steps to implement a Peacemaking Program to promote healing in suitable cases. The office has also proposed new legislation aimed at protecting vulnerable adults, showcasing their commitment to community protection.
In terms of prosecution and public safety, Barker's office has notched several courtroom victories, including high-profile convictions in State v. Broom and State v. Hopkins. Tackling major cases through plea agreements, Barker's team has successfully secured substantial prison sentences for individuals involved in manslaughter, child exploitation, and attempted drive-by shootings.
The County Attorney's Office has also taken a proactive stance on community engagement. Barker's team has been directly involved in educating the public on issues such as scams and identity theft. They have gone to great lengths to make sure they reach out to residents by helping to launch the "Justice Bus," a mobile initiative bringing court services directly to communities such as Page and Tuba City.
Ammon Barker's leadership has been recognized through securing grant funding that bolsters the prosecution of trafficking cases and co-founding the Unidentified Remains Task Force, aimed at bringing solace to affected families. Furthermore, the team has been strengthened through key hires, notably Ethel Branch, the former Navajo Nation Attorney General, who has added an element of diversity to Barker's lineup.
