News Summary
Pat Dugan, a candidate for Philadelphia’s district attorney, has criticized current DA Larry Krasner’s policies, linking them to rising crime rates in Philadelphia. Dugan pointed to a significant increase in homicides and declining conviction rates under Krasner’s administration. He aims to implement both punitive and restorative justice strategies and is focusing on enhancing community engagement and the effectiveness of prosecutions. Dugan’s campaign has gained momentum with endorsements and significant funding ahead of the primary election.
Philadelphia – Pat Dugan, a candidate for Philadelphia’s district attorney position, has voiced significant criticism towards current DA Larry Krasner’s policies, suggesting that they have contributed to rising crime rates in the city. During a recent editorial meeting, Dugan presented data indicating that there were nearly 75 additional homicides each year between 2015 and 2019, particularly highlighting the initial years of Krasner’s administration.
Dugan specifically pointed to Krasner’s policy of refraining from pursuing gun-related prosecutions as a contributing factor to the surge in violent crime. He also lamented the decline in conviction rates under Krasner’s tenure, noting a drop in guilty pleas from 46% to 33% while dismissals increased from 35% to 53%. This shift has coincided with a dramatic rise in homicides in Philadelphia, which escalated from 315 in 2017 to 562 in 2021, before decreasing to 269 in 2024.
In addition to discussing homicide rates, Dugan expressed frustration at the perceived lack of support for crime reduction programs he previously implemented during his time in municipal court, including veterans’ courts and rehabilitative classes for individuals involved in sex work. He believes that both punitive and restorative justice strategies are essential, yet contends that Krasner has not adequately pursued either approach.
Dugan, who served on the Municipal Court bench from 2007 to 2024 and was president judge in his last five years, shared insights from his experience, which involved collaboration with key stakeholders on crime reduction efforts. He criticized Krasner for withdrawing Philadelphia County from the Pennsylvania District Attorney’s Association, a move he argues impedes collaborative efforts with other prosecutors in the state.
Furthering his critique, Dugan expressed concerns about Krasner’s hiring practices, claiming that employing law school graduates from outside Philadelphia has resulted in inexperienced prosecutors who struggle with case readiness and face high turnover rates. Dugan remarked that he has observed challenges arising from communication issues between the DA’s office and families of crime victims, negatively affecting their involvement in the judicial process.
As the district attorney race intensifies, Dugan has emerged as a strong contender, leading in ward endorsements by a tally of 28 to Krasner’s 23, a stark contrast to Krasner’s primary win in 2021. His campaign has garnered endorsements from over 30 unions, including significant backing from the Building Trades Council. Dugan’s platform prioritizes the prosecution of violent crimes, particularly assaults against SEPTA workers, which he views as a critical issue facing the community.
Despite assertions from Krasner that Dugan would be lenient regarding police misconduct cases, Dugan emphasized his commitment to impartiality, focusing on evidence over a defendant’s background. While plans for a televised debate between the candidates have not come to fruition, Dugan’s campaign has raised over $800,000 for advertising in anticipation of the May 20 primary. He advocates for the reinstatement of geographical case assignments, a practice established under former DA Seth Williams.
Looking ahead, Dugan aims to enhance the engagement of prosecutors with community leaders and families affected by crime, an area he believes has suffered under the current administration. He is particularly focused on reversing a trend of disconnect that has developed between the DA’s office and the communities it serves. Dugan highlighted the critical need for prosecutors to arrive prepared, reflecting on his observations of inexperienced attorneys in the courtroom.
As the campaign unfolds, the discussions surrounding crime, prosecution, and community involvement will likely continue to shape the narrative leading up to the primary election. Dugan’s assertions place him at odds with Krasner’s policies and raise important questions about the effectiveness and direction of the district attorney’s office in Philadelphia.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Philadelphia’s DA Primary: Krasner vs. Dugan
Philadelphia Primaries Set for May 20 Amid Ballot Concerns
Tensions Rise in Philadelphia’s District Attorney Race
Massachusetts AG Leads Coalition to Revive Wind Energy Projects
Additional Resources
- Billy Penn: Krasner-Dugan District Attorney Primary
- NBC Philadelphia: Krasner and Dugan Discuss DA Primary
- Inquirer: Endorsement for DA Race
- City & State PA: Interview with Patrick Dugan
- Philly Tribune: Pat Dugan’s Criticism of Opponent
- Wikipedia: Larry Krasner
- Google Search: Philadelphia District Attorney primary
- Google Scholar: Philadelphia District Attorney
- Encyclopedia Britannica: District Attorney
- Google News: Philadelphia crime
