Former judge becomes new Contra Costa district attorney while promising reform

In Justice Today - September 13, 2017 by Larry Hannan

In a victory for criminal justice reform advocates, recently retired
judge Diana Becton has been appointed the new district attorney in
Contra Costa California.

On Tuesday the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors appointed Becton to
finish the term of former District Attorney Mark Peterson. Becton was
seen as the candidate most interested in reforming the criminal
justice system and addressing mass incarceration.

"The use of mass incarceration is expensive, and has been proven to
be ineffective for achieving the most important goal, which is public
safety," Becton said in a candidate questionnaire. Becton has also
voiced support for bail reform.

"I'm grateful that the Board of Supervisors has put their trust in
me, and I'm grateful to all the people who've come out to support
me," Becton said. "I will work and do my best to serve the people of
Contra Costa County in a way that treats everyone fairly."

Becton is the first African-American and the first woman to be head
prosecutor of Contra Costa. Before this, she was a judge for 22 years
and has also worked in private practice.

"I heard the need for change, a voice that was much different from
those we've heard in the past," said Supervisor Federal Glover, who
supported Becton.

Full story at:

https://injusticetoday.com/former-judge-becomes-new-contra-costa-district-attorney-while-promising-reform-7be0d5424859