The Camden County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office recognizes the vital role of a free press and an informed public in maintaining confidence in the criminal justice system. Transparency promotes accountability and trust. At the same time, the Office has an overriding duty to protect the constitutional rights of all parties, particularly a defendant’s right to a fair trial before an impartial jury. This policy is intended to balance the public’s right to know with the Prosecutor’s ethical and legal obligations.

 

Prosecutors are not merely advocates; they are ministers of justice. While all attorneys are bound by ethical rules governing extrajudicial statements, the ethical obligations of a prosecutor are broader and more demanding. Our responsibility is not to secure convictions, but to pursue justice fairly, impartially, and in accordance with the law. Accordingly, public communications must be measured, accurate, and restrained.

 

This policy applies to all employees of the Camden County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, including the Prosecuting Attorney, Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys, investigators, and staff. It governs all communications with members of the media and public regarding criminal cases, investigations, office operations, and related matters.

 

The Office is committed to providing timely, accurate information to the public when appropriate. Consistent with Missouri law, ethical rules, and court orders.

 

The Prosecuting Attorney’s Office will not make public statements that could reasonably be expected to prejudice a pending or impending criminal proceeding. This includes, but is not limited to: 

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•    Statements regarding the credibility of witnesses or victims;

•    Opinions about a defendant’s guilt or innocence.

•    Discussion of evidence that has not been presented in open court;

•    Statements intended to influence public opinion or potential jurors.

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Safeguarding the integrity of the judicial process and the right to a fair trial is a paramount duty that outweighs the desire for commentary, explanation, or public debate.

 

All communications by the Office must comply with: 

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•    The Missouri Rules of Professional Conduct;

•    Applicable court rules and orders;

•    State and federal law governing confidentiality and disclosure.

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As prosecutors, members of this Office are held to a higher ethical standard. Public statements must reflect restraint, professionalism, and respect for the rights of defendants, victims, witnesses, and the community. Silence or limited comment is often necessary and appropriate to fulfill these obligations.

 

The Camden County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office strives to maintain public confidence through integrity, transparency, and respect for the rule of law. While we acknowledge and respect the role of the press and the community’s interest in criminal proceedings, our foremost duty is to ensure justice is pursued fairly and ethically. Protecting the right to a fair trial and upholding the heightened ethical responsibilities of a prosecutor guide every decision regarding public communication.