Aug. 2014 Election: Bollinger County Prosecuting Attorney

__Name:__ Heath Robins

__Age:__ 37

__Place of birth:__ Cape Girardeau, Missouri

__Occupation:__ Attorney and Farmer

__Education:__

Graduate of Advance Missouri High School. B.S. from Southeast Missouri State University, 2007; Thomas M. Cooley Law School, J.D., 2012.

__Employer:__ Self-employed Attorney and Farmer. City of Miner prosecutor.

__Businesses owned, all or part:__ None

__Public offices held or sought:__ Seeking candidacy as Bollinger County Prosecuting Attorney

__What makes an effective prosecuting attorney?:__

An effective prosecuting attorney approaches each task with fairness, firmness, and promptness. The prosecutor will seek the truth, not cases. The position requires adhering to integrity and full devotion while serving the law, and seeking just results.

__Plea bargain vs. trial -- how do you decide?:__

It is common that a majority of felonies and misdemeanors plead guilty. A prosecutor should weigh the seriousness of the case with the costs of prosecution, the efficiency of the courts, and time constraints on the defendant. Factors such as the rules of the court, disposition options, and special conditions will also apply. The foregoing is balanced with the facts of the case, the defendant's background, and the victim, in coming to a prosecution strategy.

__Why are you the best candidate for the position?:__

My fresh outlook on the legal system allows me to approach modern prosecution with innovation and an ability to understand the expanding and ever-changing needs of the prosecutor's position. I am committed to a strong work ethic while maintaining a firm yet fair position, and dedicated to seeking the truth. My experience as both a former assistant prosecutor and current city prosecutor have given me sound principles in working with the courts, law enforcement, victims, and defendants.

__Do you support having a drug court in Bollinger County?:__

I previously worked with the 33rd Judicial Circuit Drug Court as an assistant prosecutor in Scott County. Drug courts reduce crime, save taxpayers money, ensure defendant compliance, combat addiction, and restore families.