Dear editor:

Marina Tucker is asking Park County voters to trust her as their next county attorney. Before voting, residents should consider how victims are treated when they depend on the county attorney’s office for communication, honesty and protection.

I am the victim in a serious criminal case handled by Ms. Tucker and the Park County Attorney’s Office. For months, I repeatedly requested information, raised concerns about my personal safety, and provided documentation relevant to the case.

I was assured more than once that no plea agreement would be reached without the prosecutor first speaking with me. Despite those assurances, I learned during a court hearing that a plea agreement had already been signed that morning.

No one contacted me beforehand to explain the agreement, discuss my concerns, or give me an opportunity to be heard. A member of the office was able to email me within minutes after the plea agreement was announced in court, yet I received no call, voicemail or email before it was signed.

I repeatedly requested a meeting with Ms. Tucker and the current county attorney. Those requests went unanswered. I later approached Ms. Tucker at a public candidate forum, introduced myself, and again requested a meeting. I still did not receive one.

I also attempted to provide official documentation correcting inaccurate information being used by the office. After obtaining a current recorded document directly from the county clerk, I offered to email it to a deputy county attorney. He declined to receive it and told me it did not matter at that point.

Most troubling was being told that the prosecutor’s office did not have to listen to a victim or even speak with a victim.

I understand that victims do not control criminal prosecutions or plea negotiations. However, victims should reasonably expect truthful communication, consideration of their safety concerns, and an opportunity to discuss decisions that may directly affect their lives.

Ms. Tucker has spoken publicly about wanting Park County residents to feel safe enough to leave their doors unlocked. Because of how my case was handled, I no longer feel safe in my own home, whether my doors are locked or unlocked.

While filing a formal complaint with the state, I also became aware that others have raised concerns about their experiences with this office and its staff. I encourage voters to conduct their own research, ask questions, and speak with people who have had direct experience with the criminal justice system. I also encourage others with similar experiences to stand up and be heard.

Park County needs a strong county attorney who will protect the community, take victims’ concerns seriously, communicate honestly, and treat people with dignity and respect.

Campaign promises must be supported by actions.

Lori Crown

Cody