Photos by Heather Cathcart-Norris First Assistant District Attorney Cody Brown announced his candidacy to be the nxt District Attorney on Friday afternoon.

Cody Brown announced his candidacy for District Attorney, highlighting a law and community involvement background.

Brown, who has served as an assistant district attorney for 10 years, including seven as the first assistant, made the declaration to a crowd on the stairs outside the Warren County Courthouse on Friday at noon.

Brown, a lifelong resident of Warren County, has dedicated his professional career to serving and protecting the community. Drawing on his local roots and firsthand experiences, Brown highlights the impact of crime on families and neighborhoods, emphasizing its effects on individuals and the broader community.

“Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many dedicated members of our community, and together, we have strived to uphold the values of justice, safety, and support for our families,” Brown said. “This ongoing dedication to upholding law and order continues to drive my vision for a stronger, safer, and more unified future for Warren County.”

His role as director of the Warren County Drug Task Force has strengthened his collaboration with local law enforcement, fostering trust he aims to expand as District Attorney.

He said, “I am committed to ensuring that our police officers, sheriffs, and first responders have the resources, training, and support they need to perform their jobs effectively.”

Brown is actively involved in professional and community organizations, serving as president of the Warren County Bar Association and a member of its Constitution and Bylaws Committee.

Brown also serves on the Warren County Child Advocacy Center board and is an elected member of the Warren County School District Board of Directors.

If elected, Brown plans to enhance collaboration between the District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, emphasizing education and support for the community.

Brown said, “I will work tirelessly to establish partnerships with our schools, churches, and community organizations to proactively address and prevent crime. We must invest in programs that guide our youth, giving them the tools to make better choices and steering them away from the criminal justice system.”

Addressing recidivism rates, Brown said he “believes we need to reform how we treat nonviolent offenders.”

Brown emphasizes the importance of balancing accountability with rehabilitation in the justice system.

He advocates for initiatives like diversion programs, mental health support, and job training to help individuals rebuild their lives and reduce recidivism.

He also identifies the need for increased staffing and resources, proposing the addition of a county detective to address the growing number and complexity of criminal cases.

Reflecting on his career, Brown cites his role during the Michael Burham escape as particularly impactful.

As a liaison among local, state, and federal law enforcement, he coordinated resources and provided critical support, showcasing his commitment to public safety and justice.

In closing, Brown stated, “I am asking for your support because, together, we can make a difference. We can build a safer, stronger Warren County where families feel secure and where justice is both served and fair.”