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Candidates differ on how prosecutorial discretion should address disparities and witness cooperation
Summary
In the Saint Genevieve forum, Wayne Williams emphasized evidence‑based discretion and victims’ restitution; Terry Sheehan said discretion must protect constitutional rights and not create unequal outcomes, while both warned against tampering with witnesses.
When asked whether prosecutorial discretion should be used to secure witness cooperation or counter racial and financial disparities, incumbent Wayne Williams described the scope of discretion in charging, plea recommendations and sentencing ranges, underscoring that decisions are guided by evidence and substantive law. “We do have discretion on what charges we file,” Williams said, and added that disposition decisions depend on criminal history and strength of evidence.
Terry Sue Sheehan said discretion should respect victims and the constitutional rights of defendants to avoid lawsuits against the county. Sheehan said the office should prioritize serious violent crimes while using alternatives for lower‑level, victimless offenses and emphasized equal treatment regardless of status.
Both candidates cautioned against using discretion to pressure witnesses. Williams explicitly warned prosecutors cannot tamper with witnesses and said the office asks witnesses only to tell the truth. Sheehan emphasized constitutional protections and said misapplied discretion can lead to costly civil litigation.
