DAs Honor Blackwell As "Legislator Of The Year"

Speaker Pro Tempore Gus Blackwell has been singled out by the Oklahoma District Attorney's Council for his constant support of the judicial system during the 2007 legislative session and given the group's "Legislator of the Year" award.

"Since being elected to Oklahoma's House of Representatives, Representative Blackwell has been a staunch advocate for public safety. He is proactive in addressing issues impacting prosecution and the criminal justice system, and his commitment to public safety in Oklahoma is without question. It is our distinct pleasure to recognize him for that commitment," said Suzanne McClain Atwood, executive director of the Oklahoma District Attorneys Association.

"A large part of Representatives Blackwell's selection was based upon his strong support of several critical issues involving law enforcement, crime and the judicial system. The DA Council felt his issues were important to maintaining the safety of Oklahomans," said District Attorney Mike Boring. "Gus has become well known to the 27 district attorneys in this state due to his law-and-order legislation."

The Goodwell Republican has been an active voice on many judicial issues including an independent outside audit of the Department of Corrections, increasing sex offender penalties and punishments, increasing the penalties for any individual who commits assault or battery on a school employee and carrying the DA's omnibus bill.

Share |