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New Johnston County district attorney, Jason Waller, lays out juvenile crime focus, efficiency and outreach
Summary
Incoming District Attorney Jason Waller introduced himself to the county board and described three priorities: public safety (including a dangerous-offenders task force and emphasis on juvenile violent crime), operational efficiency in court dockets, and strengthening relationships with law enforcement and county officials.
Jason Waller, Johnston County’s newly sworn district attorney, introduced himself to the Board of Commissioners during the Aug. 4 meeting and outlined three priorities he said will guide his office: public safety, operational efficiency and interagency relationships.
Waller said he has been a prosecutor for 19 years and has worked in Wake County and in Johnston County prior to becoming DA. “Public safety is priority number one,” Waller said, describing plans to establish a “dangerous offenders task force” that will focus on individuals who pose threats to the community and on rising juvenile violent crime. He told commissioners he planned a three-part approach — prevention, intervention and enforcement — for youth-related violence and cited recent local homicide prosecutions involving juveniles.
On efficiency, Waller said he is emphasizing docket management and workflow improvements so cases move faster through the system. He described a homicide status and custody review calendar started in 2023 with Judge Locke that has reduced the time needed to handle homicide and custody dockets.
Waller also stressed relationships with law enforcement, judicial staff and county officials. “I want to be here for you as well,” he said. He thanked commissioners for funding positions in the DA’s office and told the board his door is open for questions or to observe court.
Board and public questions Commissioners asked about the juvenile crime trends Waller referenced and about potential drivers of youth violence. Waller said his practical experience in recent prosecutions shows a rise in juvenile involvement in violent crimes and noted the transfer process from juvenile court to superior court takes significant staff time. A commissioner relayed feedback from the state’s juvenile justice division that COVID-era closures of youth centers and a sharp increase in juvenile referrals have contributed to the rise, and noted a lack of community mental-health options for adolescents. Waller said mental-health services will be part of the prevention and intervention emphasis of the planned task force.
Ending: Waller said he has been on the job “about a month” and invited commissioners to visit the DA’s office or observe court. He offered routine updates and emphasized collaboration with county officials, law enforcement and the community.
