Shawnee County District Attorney seeks funding to address attorney vacancies and major cases

Shawnee County's District Attorney's Office is seeking continued support to maintain its status as one of the best prosecution offices in Kansas, as highlighted during the recent Shawnee County Commission Work Session on July 3, 2025. District Attorney's Office representatives addressed the commission, emphasizing the need for funding to fill attorney vacancies and manage an increasing caseload, particularly in light of ongoing staffing challenges.

The District Attorney reported that while the backlog of cases created by the COVID-19 pandemic has been largely addressed, the office still faces challenges due to vacancies. Currently, there are two attorney openings, one for a senior position and another for a starting role. The competitive job market for attorneys in Kansas has made recruitment difficult, leading to concerns that uncharged cases may be delayed further if staffing levels do not improve.

The meeting also touched on significant upcoming cases, including a high-profile murder case involving the tragic death of a five-year-old girl. The District Attorney indicated that while they cannot predict the emergence of new major felony cases, the office historically handles between 18 to 24 homicides annually, which contributes to a consistently high caseload.

In addition to staffing issues, the budget discussions revealed a shift in how funds are allocated within the office. The District Attorney's Office has hired a full-time accountant to ensure precise financial management, resulting in a clearer breakdown of expenses. This includes a notable increase in IT and infrastructure costs, reflecting the need for updated technology to support the office's operations.

The commission also discussed the integration of Axon Justice software, which aims to streamline processes and reduce man-hours. While the software is not yet fully implemented, the District Attorney expressed confidence in its potential to improve efficiency.

As the meeting concluded, the District Attorney reiterated the importance of adequate funding to address staffing shortages and maintain effective prosecution services in Shawnee County. The commission's support will be crucial in ensuring that the office can continue to meet the demands of its growing caseload and uphold justice in the community.