Anna Cooley begins tenure as first female district attorney for 7th judicial district

The San Miguel County Board of County Commissioners meeting on January 23, 2025, featured a significant introduction to the new 7th Judicial District Attorney, Anna Cooley. In her first public appearance since taking office just six days prior, Cooley outlined the pressing challenges facing her office and the communities within the district, which includes San Miguel, Montrose, Delta, and Gunnison counties.

Cooley, who made history as the first elected female district attorney in the 7th Judicial District, emphasized the urgent need for staffing and resources. Currently, her office is operating with only seven attorneys, far below the required sixteen, leading to overwhelming caseloads that exceed recommended limits. This staffing shortage is compounded by a concerning rise in serious crimes, including drug offenses and domestic violence, which Cooley described as "out of control."

A critical issue highlighted during the meeting was the impact of housing costs on recruitment. Cooley noted that the starting salary for a deputy district attorney is $80,000, which is insufficient for potential hires to afford living in the area, where rental prices can reach $3,000. This financial strain makes it difficult to attract qualified candidates, further exacerbating the staffing crisis.

Cooley also addressed the need for accountability and transparency in her office's operations. She acknowledged the absence of updated job descriptions, performance reviews, and a training budget, which are essential for maintaining a competent legal team. She expressed her commitment to implementing these structures to ensure effective use of resources and to build trust within the community.

The discussion also touched on broader community issues, including the need for improved behavioral health and addiction services. Cooley emphasized that many crimes are linked to addiction, and addressing these underlying issues is crucial for reducing crime rates. She called for collaboration with community leaders to develop solutions that not only hold individuals accountable but also provide the necessary support to break the cycle of repeat offenses.

As the meeting concluded, Cooley requested patience from the community as she works to stabilize her office and address these significant challenges. Her proactive approach and focus on community engagement signal a commitment to improving the safety and well-being of residents in San Miguel County and beyond.