Jacob Putman

In the heated race for Smith County District Attorney, there are two highly competent candidates. Both are well versed in the law and bring years of experience.

Candidates Alicia Barkley and Jacob Putman both came to the District Attorney’s Office fresh out of law school and started prosecuting misdemeanor cases, eventually working their way up to felony prosecution.

Barkley stayed seven years before leaving in 2002 and starting a family law private practice. Putman has been with the DAs office for nine years.

Both candidates seem to have a similar view of what needs to happen at the DA’s office and both put engaged leadership high on that list. The candidates indicate a strong desire to work closely with local law enforcement and the prosecutors in the office in a hands-on manner.

Throughout the course of the campaign we believe Barkley has demonstrated maturity in communicating through many complex topics essential to serving in the role she seeks.

Barkley’s broad panel of experience in public and private practice positions her well to capably lead the office. We endorsed her for the job when she ran against Bingham in 2004.

We recommend Alicia Barkley for Smith County District Attorney.