Elizabeth Coker has announced she is seeking the office of Polk County Criminal District Attorney. Coker states “after serving as a district judge for almost fifteen years I am now looking forward to serving in a new capacity as a public servant. The outpouring of love, support and prayers over the past several months has been tremendous. It made me realize that public service is still in my blood and I am honored and humbled that many of our fellow citizens still want me as a public servant.”

Coker graduated from Livingston High School in 1985 and then graduated from Baylor and Baylor Law School. Prior to taking office in 1999 she was in private practice which included criminal cases. “I have seen firsthand the need for improvement in the District Attorney’s office: A better working relationship with all the law enforcement agencies in our great county; better communication with witnesses and victims; utilizing assistant prosecutors and staff to their fullest extent; training the newest prosecutors and taking a proactive approach to managing the office while being mindful of taxpayers’ money” Coker said “these are some of the areas that if elected, I am committed to improving.

The Cokers settled in Polk County in the 1880’s. “Our county is growing and an unfortunate consequence of that is crime. My reputation as a judge was being tough on crime. However, a prosecutor not only has to be tough put also smart on crime. I have the experience, knowledge and expertise to not only continue to be tough on crime but also be fiscally responsible while protecting the citizens of Polk County” Coker said.

Combining her years as a trial attorney as well as a judge, Coker believes her unique experience with the criminal justice system will be an asset and asks the voters to support her in the Republican primary for Polk County Criminal District Attorney.