Objectives as County Attorney

Eric Clarke stands for the rule of law and the Constitution.  He prosecutes crime and supports local law enforcement.  Police officers in Washington County know they can always count on him to support them and answer any questions or concerns they may have.  He heads local victim's advocacy organizations and helps victims see justice done.

Eric Clarke advocates for responsible use of public lands.  Washington County has a wider variety of protected lands than any other county in Utah.  We have a national park, several wilderness areas, national conservation areas, and areas of critical environmental concern.  Our lands should remain accessible and, where appropriate, open to multiple uses.  Also, federal land-use laws directly impact the pocketbooks of area residents.  Eric is the most experienced attorney in the county at dealing with these laws and the issues specific to our area.

Eric Clarke pursues responsive criminal justice reform.  The most exciting accomplishment of the County Attorney’s Office in the past few years is the implementation of a program that makes criminal justice more responsive to the needs of the community while not abandoning the principle that justice usually requires punishment.  This program has resulted in substance abuse and mental health treatment routinely being court-ordered as part of plea agreements as well as the building of a "Diversion Center" where people in crisis can go to receive help before committing crimes.  Over time, this will reduce repeat offenses and save taxpayer dollars.