Spokane County deputy prosecutor Katy McNalty explains the office’s role and defendants’ rights

Katy McNalty, a deputy prosecutor with the Spokane County Prosecutor's Office, recorded a short Spanish-language video explaining the role of the prosecutor’s office in criminal cases and the rights of people accused of crimes. McNalty said the office balances enforcing the law with protecting the rights of victims, witnesses and defendants.

McNalty told viewers that "Como fiscales, nuestra responsabilidad es aplicar la ley y procurar justicia," and clarified that the office does not work for police or for a victim but represents the community as a whole. She said prosecutors review the facts, analyze evidence and decide case-by-case whether to pursue traditional criminal charges or alternatives such as diversion programs or therapeutic courts.

She outlined basic rights for people accused of crimes: the right to an attorney, the right to confront and cross-examine witnesses who testify against them, and the requirement that the prosecution prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. McNalty recommended that anyone facing charges speak with a lawyer to review their options and the evidence in their case.

McNalty emphasized the dual goals of accountability and, where appropriate, rehabilitation: "Nos enfocamos en que cada persona responda por sus actos, por la equidad y cuando sea posible en la rehabilitación." She closed the video by thanking viewers on behalf of the Spokane County Prosecutor's Office.

The video is informational and does not announce any new policy or individual case action.