Spokane County deputy prosecutor outlines office role, rights for people facing charges

Spokane County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Katie McNelte outlined the prosecutor’s role and the rights of people facing criminal charges in a short public briefing. "A common misconception is we work for police or the victim. We actually represent the people of this community, everyone," she said.

McNelte said the prosecutor’s office reviews the facts and evidence in every case, protects the rights of victims, witnesses and the accused, and works to ensure the legal process is fair. "That means reviewing the facts, looking at the evidence, protecting the rights of everyone, and making sure the legal process is fair for everyone involved," she said.

She described the range of responses the office may consider. "A prosecutor must consider whether justice is served through traditional prosecution, diversion, or other available resolutions such as therapeutic courts," McNelte said, noting alternatives to standard prosecution are part of the office’s toolkit.

McNelte emphasized constitutional rights in the criminal process: "When a person is charged with a crime, they have the right to an attorney. They also have the right to face their accuser and to make the prosecution prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt." She encouraged anyone facing charges to speak with a lawyer, saying attorneys can provide "valuable insight on options in your case as well as assist you in evaluating the evidence."

She closed by stressing the office’s twin priorities: holding people accountable while protecting civil rights and pursuing rehabilitation when appropriate. "Our focus is on accountability, fairness, and when possible, rehabilitation," McNelte said.

The briefing was presented by the Spokane County Prosecutor’s Office and directed listeners who are involved in or affected by criminal cases to consult qualified legal counsel or the office for more information.