IMPERIAL COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY
perience. Jason Amavisca
Age:
52
Occupation: Lawyer/adjunct professor SDSU
List your previous civic leadership ex
I am a prior board of director member for Clinicas de Salud. I am a current board member in the Imperial County Lawyers Association, and I have had the privilege of serving as an adjunct professor at SDSU-IV, teaching criminal justice and criminal law for over five years.
What issue will you focus on?
I will focus on measures to increase public safety. This begins by establishing a solid working relationship with our law enforcement partners at the local, state, federal levels and with our community. I will fight for victims’ rights. I will focus on prevention by working with our schools and juveniles.
Why did you decide to seek election in your respective race?
It is time for change. It is time for the District Attorney’s Office to reconnect with our community and be more proactive. The District Attorney’s Office, our law enforcement and our citizens must work together toward a safer community. I will work had to bring us together.
What is your strongest asset?
I bring over 20 years’ experience practice in criminal law. I am a former prosecutor in Imperial County (20002006) and have been in private practice with an emphasis on criminal state and federal defense since 2006. I have the experience and qualifications to successfully execute the office of district attorney.
Why should the voters vote for you?
You should vote for me because I bring several years of experience, passion and vision to be an effective advocate for the people. As your district attorney, I will fight zealously for victims’ rights. I will be tough on crime, but just. I will work relentlessly to establish Veterans’ Court.
Edgard Garcia Age: 39
Occupation: Attorney/council member
List your previous civic leadership experience.
I have served on numerous non-profit boards. I have also had the honor of serving on the El Centro City Council for the last six years and I am currently the district director for Imperial County on the League of California Cities.
What issue will you focus on?
As district attorney, I would focus on prioritizing the prosecution of serious and violent crimes, make sure that the proper resources and attention are given to prosecuting repeat offenders, and also work towards revitalizing the juvenile justice system so children do not become criminals in the future.
Why did you decide to seek election in your respective race?
I have always been passionate about public safety and ensuring that we live in a safe community. In my legal experience of 13 years, I have noticed discrepancies in the system that need to be addressed. I feel that this with my government experience makes me the voice for change.
What is your strongest asset?
My strongest asset is my proven leadership experience gained through my position as an El Centro City Council member. I have worked on budgets and have experience managing departments and setting policy that has an impact on residents of the city of El Centro.
Why should the voters vote for you?
I am the only candidate with government experience, and that experience would allow me to be effective on the first day on the job as district attorney. My experience is unique because it is not only in the practice of law but in the management of a government entity.
George Marquez
Age:
51
Occupation: Attorney/adjunct professor SDSU
List your previous civic leadership experience.
CASA board of directors, president of Calexico Rotary Club, president of Imperial County District Attorney’s Association (2018).
What issue will you focus on?
I will focus on several issues. Here are a few of them: advocate for more criminals to be booked in jail, attorney retention, mental health court and treatment, improvements to the juvenile process, and building bridges with all areas and segments of the population in the county. Why did you decide to seek election in your respective race?
Why did you decide to seek election in your respective race?
I was approached by several members of the community to run for office because they felt I have the experience, knowledge, and wisdom to be an excellent district attorney. I have a family, and I want to protect our community in an aggressive but fair manner.
What is your strongest asset?
Sound judgement based on experience from both sides.
I was a deputy district attorney for close to nine years. I did several jury trials, grand juries, and juvenile proceedings. I have been a public defender assigned to felony cases close to three years. My experience is key in analyzing cases.
Why should the voters vote for you?
I have the most experience as a prosecutor (close to nine years) and the only candidate with public defender experience. I am a product of our local public schools. I have the following qualities: integrity, bridge builder, toughness, fair, and I am open minded. I have solid law-enforcement endorsements.
Mario Vela
Age: 31
Occupation: Imperial County deputy district attorney
List your previous civic leadership experience.
For the past five years, I have been a volunteer high school mock trial coach. Through this program, I am able to mentor our community’s youth through criminal law and procedure lectures and trial advocacy skills. I am also a member of the Imperial Valley Breakfast Rotary Club.
What issue will you focus on?
Having more transparency and accountability with our community.
Continuing with aggressive but fair prosecution with a tough-on-crime approach.
Employing skilled and experienced prosecutors. Strengthen our relationship with law enforcement. Protect our community, our business owners and our farmlands.
Why did you decide to seek election in your respective race?
After 27 years of service, our current district attorney, Gilbert G. Otero, chose me to run as his successor. I will protect and remember Mr. Otero’s legacy, but I will not be him. I will create a legacy of my own. A legacy that involves you, the people.
What is your strongest asset?
My experience as a prosecutor, my passion, and my youth. My one priority right now is to continue working for you as your public servant. I will always do what is best for this community. It’s an honor serving you and I will continue to personally prosecute cases.
Why should the voters vote for you?
Because the District Attorney’s Office needs a leader who will lead by example. I have the support of every prosecutor in our office and with your help we will revitalize our office by being tough on crime, empowering our community and victims, and by strengthening our relationship with law enforcement.