Superior Court judge race critical to future of Placer County

Our judges are vital to the future of the Placer County community. I should know, my daughter's death led to the first fentanyl murder conviction in the State of California. When I lost my daughter, Jewels, I experienced an unimaginable loss. My sense of security, safety and identity was shattered. In many ways, it still is. Some of my first steps toward healing were made possible through the criminal justice process. Due to the commitment of the Placer County Sheriff's Office and the tenacity of the Placer County District Attorney's Office, the predator who preyed on my daughter through social media was sentenced to 15 years to life. The judge in my case handled the proceedings with professionalism, care and consideration. Throughout the process, there was a clear respect for victims of crime and the gravity of what families endure. That experience is not only critical for those directly impacted by crime, it is also critical for the Placer County community at large. And no one supports victims quite like Placer County. That is why the current judicial race matters so much. Currently, there is a sitting judge in Placer County, Leon Dixson, who is seeking election to a full term after being appointed last year to the bench by Governor Gavin Newsom following a mid-term judicial vacancy. The people of Placer County have never had the opportunity to vote on whether Judge Dixson should serve on our Superior Court. While judicial appointments are part of California law, elections are the only opportunity voters have to directly decide who reflects the values, judgment and priorities of their community. Some of the rhetoric surrounding this race has been disappointing and distracting. As a mother, a crime victim and a minority woman living in Placer County, I believe elected officials, especially those entrusted with immense discretion and authority, should reflect the values and priorities of the communities they serve. One case that deeply troubled me involved a man who was secretly filming young girls at the Westfield Galleria at Roseville. According to court filings, the man was following children around the mall while recording videos focused on their bodies. For the entire duration of the case, Judge Dixson allowed him to continue working around children and even permitted him to be in classroom settings with groups of at least 15 students. As a mother, I am deeply concerned Judge Dixson failed to protect children from this now convicted sex offender. Further, learning that the court clerks publicly endorsed his opponent spoke volumes. During my experience in court, I observed how important the relationship is between judges and their courtroom staff. Public endorsements from court employees in a judicial race are unusual and should raise serious concerns among residents. Supporters of Judge Dixson's campaign have attempted to frame criticism of his record as resistance to outsiders or as political attacks. I disagree. To me, this election is about accountability, transparency and ensuring voters understand the importance of judicial races. Placer County is one of the most sought-after places to live, work and raise a family, and our commitment to public safety is a primary reason why. It is troubling to see statewide special interests trying to silence the very real concerns of our community members in this election. Our elected leaders, including District Attorney Morgan Gire and Sheriff Wayne Woo, have worked hard to earn the trust of this community. Their endorsements also carry weight because they have consistently shown up for residents, victims and public safety, not just during election season but every day through their service. With all of this in mind, I proudly join our law enforcement, Crime Victims United and survivors across our county in supporting Dave Bass for judge. Bass has earned both my support and the support of many throughout our community through his courtroom experience, deep understanding of victims' rights and longstanding commitment to serving the citizens of Placer County. This election also serves as an important reminder: Judges are elected officials. Their decisions impact victims, families, public safety and the quality of life in our communities every single day. An informed public is essential to a strong and accountable justice system. Gina Chavez is the mother of Jewels Wolf, whose case resulted in the first fentanyl murder conviction in California. She is a statewide victims' advocate who works to support families impacted by crime and educate youth about the dangers of fentanyl poisoning. She is also a proud Placer County resident.