To the Editor:

Defense attorney Sario, his wife, and his legal secretary have sounded the cry that it is time to replace District Attorney Ryan Joslin with defense attorney Jim Carpenter. The case presented to you is whether to replace proven experience with an untested promise of something different.

Recently advertised by radio was the position of heavy diesel mechanic. Qualifications: Five years experience as a heavy diesel mechanic. The employer needed someone with actual, specialized experience. Experience as a general mechanic or a foreign vehicle mechanic was insufficient.

Personally, I don’t know much about being a mechanic. I do know a lot about being district attorney. I’ve done the job for over seven years. I’ve successfully prosecuted and shut down many meth dealers and marijuana manufacturers, helped remove substantial quantities of prescription drugs from our community, won the 2012 Oregon Wildlife Prosecutor of the Year award, have a 97 percent conviction rate on DUII cases, was instrumental in keeping Sidney Porter, convicted murderer, in prison, and have handled hundreds of criminal cases, the vast majority of which have resulted in convictions.

It’s great to talk theory about what a person would do if elected district attorney. A lot has been made by Mr. Carpenter and his supporters regarding a few cases I have handled, claiming that certain defendants should not have been prosecuted, or that other defendants should have been prosecuted more vigorously. Mr. Carpenter has made general statements that he would be more accountable, more prepared, and more wise, if elected district attorney. However, he has failed to provide any specifics to back up these claims.

The district attorney always has the burden of proving a case beyond a reasonable doubt. In the case of this election, I have offered substantial and compelling evidence as to how I have carried out my duties with skill, honor and integrity, and as to why I believe you ought to re-elect me. Mr. Carpenter has failed to provide any evidence to contrary. I simply ask you to return a verdict in accordance with the evidence.

Ryan Joslin

Mt. Vernon