Amid political attacks on some so-called progressive prosecutors, the Association of Prosecuting Attorneys (APA) issued a statement vowing to "support and defend prosecutorial independence and
the use of discretion to seek justice." APA leaders said, "We are troubled by recent efforts to limit the discretion and independence of prosecutors by some in the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The integrity, legitimacy, and credibility of our justice system are eroded when prosecutors are denied the
ability to exercise independent judgment"
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APA said that, "Legal authority has long existed to discipline or remove prosecutors. Prosecutors are bound by rules of professional and ethical conduct and may not act without lawful authority. If the electorate loses trust in our performance, policies, or manner in which we exercise discretion, the voters may replace us at the next election. Chief Prosecutors hold office for a moment in time. It is essential that our historic independence and discretion endure to serve the foundational principles of justice. We serve our communities by using our discretion to make difficult decisions that faithfully honor the law, promote safety, and pursue justice. Protecting prosecutors’ discretion protects our democracy." APA leaders did not specify cases that concern them, but Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has removed two local prosecutors in disputes over abortion and other issues, and the Pennsylvania House voted to impeach Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, accusing him of "improper use of prosecutorial discretion."
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