Op-Ed

In 2015, the Sacramento City Council created the Sacramento Community Police Commission to make recommendations on policing.

The original commission consisted of 11 members. Community groups and advocates held the majority of seats, along with a retired police captain. I was there to represent the interests of police officers and other SPD employees.

While most commission members lacked law enforcement backgrounds, the presence of two trained and experienced police professionals gave the commission credibility. We helped the group root its recommendations in reality.

The fusillade of bullets around 10th and K streets in April that left six people dead and a dozen wounded generated demands for new gun controls in a state that already has the nation’s most restrictive firearms laws.

However, what happened Downtown underscores the folly of believing that “gun violence” can be meaningfully reduced by trying to choke off the supply of firearms, with as much success as the prohibition of liquor or the war on drugs.

Take a walk down 41st Street in East Sacramento and become transformed by an act of kindness.

This city street is committed to spreading a message of love and safe harbor. House after house shine with an illuminated heart in the window. They are gifts from a new resident to her neighbors, and the movement is growing.

This kind-hearted woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, moved into the neighborhood amid the pandemic.

With stay-at-home orders, getting to know her neighbors was difficult. As the dreary months progressed, with masks in place and few personal interactions, she discovered a way to connect with her community. She decided to purchase and give away lighted hearts.

As I prepare to step aside after nearly eight years as Sacramento County district attorney, I am proud to say our office is on solid ground.

Our teams of prosecutors, investigators, forensic analysis experts and essential support staff are unified and focused. We are unwavering in our commitment to protect the public and ensure justice for crime victims.

Beyond the courtroom, we have built partnerships with community organizations and everyday citizens. With each relationship, our work becomes more effective.

I have run regularly in Land Park since the city constructed trails there more than 20 years ago. Running in Land Park is a source of great joy in my life.

However, I am concerned about dog owners who allow their dogs to run off leash in the park and endanger their animals and runners who frequent our parks.

I am a dog lover who grew up on a 300-acre farm where we always had dogs. I learned dogs are great companions, faithful and loving to their owners. I also learned dogs give chase when something runs in front of them. It’s their instinct.