Candidate column: Janet Lyness

I am running for re-election for Johnson County attorney because I have the experience, knowledge and leadership to uphold the oath of office and represent the people of Johnson County. As a licensed attorney for 24 years, practicing civil, criminal and juvenile law, including eight years as county attorney, I have the experience to represent Johnson County in difficult and complex criminal and civil litigation and effectively manage a budget of $ 2.9 million and a staff of 34.

During my tenure, I initiated treatment and diversion programs to address needs of those accused of crimes. The Drug Treatment Court, Marijuana Diversion Program, Driving Under Suspension Court and the Jail Populations Team have decreased the daily jail population by 30 people per day in the last three years.

Equally important has been my experience in representing the county, including negotiating land purchases for conservation, drafting the county's human rights ordinance, assisting the county in flood recovery and prosecuting some of the most horrible crimes committed in the county. I have a proven ability to perform the multiple duties of prosecutor, legal adviser and civil litigator.

My office will continue and expand diversions programs and work with the community to address the problems of violent crime, including sexual offenses and gun violence. We will continue to work to establish a Community ID program in Johnson County to promote social justice.

Each day, I address issues of racial disparity, inadequate mental health treatment and substance abuse by reviewing cases and working with community organizations to create innovative changes in the juvenile and criminal justice systems.

Most important, I am running for county attorney because I have compassion for the victims of crime and concern for those who commit crimes. During my 37 years in Johnson County, I have advocated for victims and victim rights, volunteered with the Domestic Violence Intervention Program and Rape Victim Advocacy Program, and founded the Sexual Assault Response Team.

I wish to continue to make a difference in the lives of both victims and those accused of crimes to ensure that our community is a safe and welcoming place to live.

' Janet Lyness of Iowa City is a Democrat seeking re-election as Johnson County attorney. Comments: jlyness1234@gmail.com