Nelson Provides Testimony to Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement

State Attorney Melissa Nelson discussed local violent crime issues and the prosecutorial strategies to combat them to a national law enforcement panel in an effort to provide recommendations that can benefit other jurisdictions across the country.

Nelson’s verbal and written testimony was presented to the Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement and Administration of Justice on Wednesday, April 8, 2020. President Donald Trump established the commission via executive order Oct. 28, 2019, to “study issues related to law enforcement and the administration of justice,” with recommendations on actions that can be taken “to prevent, reduce, and control crime, increase respect for the law, and assist victims.” The hearing featured Nelson discussing local violent crime and the Fourth Circuit State Attorney’s Office approach to addressing gun and gang violence since she took office in 2017.
The case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant State Attorneys Brittany Johnson and Garrett Hill

“Not unlike other cities, Jacksonville has challenges with gun crime and violent crime,” said Nelson. “As a prosecutor’s office, we have committed copious resources to address these issues and I am honored this esteemed presidential commission seeks to learn about our approach.”

Nelson’s testimony included the office’s changes in organizational structure, the strengthening of law enforcement partnerships, innovations in technology and education, and prevention and intervention efforts.

Learn more about the commission at https://bit.ly/2XmhqMB.