In light of recent editorials urging law enforcement to pursue prosecution in more shooting cases, I want to make clear that my office is dedicated to ensuring that every assault case that can be prosecuted is prosecuted. What's more, we are dedicated to trying anything worthwhile that will not only increase prosecution but also rebuild relations between law enforcement and the community. In my first year as Jackson County prosecutor, we have challenged the way it's always been done. We've instituted an office-wide effort called neighborhood prosecution, which improves our office's communications with neighborhoods and their leaders, as well as the police officers patrolling the streets. Nearly every member of my office - from chief trial attorneys to legal secretaries - will be taking on this extra task of reconnecting with our community. We will have established 10 neighborhood prosecution areas by the end of 2012.