As the election for the 18th Judicial District Attorney approaches, we have an opportunity to shape the future of justice in our community. The DA holds significant power over how crimes are prosecuted, who is held accountable, and what justice looks like. With a focus on public safety, accountability, and equity, the election between Carol Chambers and Amy Padden brings two distinct approaches to the forefront.

Carol Chambers, who previously served as DA for the 18th Judicial District from 2004 to 2012, is known for her tough-on-crime policies, emphasizing strict sentencing, particularly for repeat offenders and violent criminals. Chambers advocates a strategy of strong deterrents, seeking maximum sentences to address public safety concerns. She has highlighted her experience handling high-profile cases and her commitment to supporting law enforcement. However, her approach has not been without controversy—she faced criticism over her policy of overcharging defendants as a plea bargaining tool, which some say resulted in disproportionately harsh sentences. Additionally, a proposal to pay bonuses based on conviction rates led to public scrutiny, and though this policy was eventually dropped, it remains a topic of debate regarding her prosecutorial style.

Amy Padden, with nearly three decades of legal experience spanning the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Colorado Attorney General’s Office, brings a reform-centered perspective to the role. Padden advocates for rehabilitation, particularly for non-violent offenders, and aims to address systemic inequities within the justice system. Her platform includes expanding diversion programs that provide alternatives to incarceration, like mental health and substance abuse treatment, which she argues can reduce recidivism and create safer communities in the long run. Transparency is a cornerstone of her campaign—she plans to establish a conviction integrity unit to review cases for wrongful convictions and racial bias, emphasizing that fairness should be the bedrock of prosecutorial practices.

Both candidates recognize the need to address issues like mental health and addiction in the criminal justice system, though their strategies differ. Chambers established Mental Health and Recovery Courts during her previous term, focusing on treatment alternatives for non-violent offenders. Padden, looking to build on this, supports broader co-responder programs that involve mental health professionals in crisis responses alongside law enforcement, which she believes could prevent unnecessary arrests and promote a more supportive approach.

The candidates’ stances on policing also highlight their differing priorities. Chambers supports a strong alignment with law enforcement, seeing it as essential to maintaining community safety and backing police accountability measures when necessary. Padden advocates for partnerships that incorporate mental health expertise, aiming to address public safety more holistically.

This election will shape the future of justice in the 18th Judicial District, impacting how public safety, fairness, and accountability are addressed in our communities. Whether it’s a focus on tough sentencing and deterrence or systemic reform and rehabilitation, each candidate offers a unique vision for the role of District Attorney. For residents of Arapahoe County, this is a crucial decision with lasting effects on our justice system. Make an informed choice, and most importantly, make a plan to vote—your voice is essential in determining the direction of justice.