Candidates Cody Brown and Casey Strickland will be available to discuss their resumes, experiences and goals for the position. The evening is coordinated by the League of Women Voters of Warren County.

Strickland serves as the second assistant district attorney in Warren County and told the Times Observer she brings experience in prosecuting cases involving some of the most vulnerable members of the community, including children, the elderly, domestic abuse survivors, and animals.

Strickland earned her undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida before completing her law degree at the University of Mississippi School of Law. She began her legal career in Warren County in 2019 as a judicial law clerk for the Court of Common Pleas for Warren and Forest counties. In 2021, she joined the Warren County District Attorney’s Office as the second assistant district attorney.

If elected, Strickland told the Times Observer she aims to expand access to community resources for victims. She pointed to the Warren County Children’s Advocacy Center as an example of a program that has played a vital role in prosecuting cases involving child sexual abuse.

Casey Strickland

“Since I’ve held this position, we’ve doubled the number of children coming forward reporting abuse through this resource,” Strickland said. “When meeting a victim for the first time, I let them know that I will be by their side for as long as they need me. Many victims feel isolated and afraid, and it is extremely moving to see the positive changes that come from successfully prosecuting their offenders.”

Brown has been the county’s assistant district attorney for 10 years, including seven as the first assistant. Brown has served as the director of the Warren County Drug Task Force, is president of the Warren County Bar Association and a member of its Constitution and Bylaws Committee. Brown also serves on the Warren County Child Advocacy Center board and is an elected member of the Warren County School Board.

If elected, Brown plans to enhance collaboration between the District Attorney’s Office, law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, emphasizing education and support for the community.

He advocates for initiatives like diversion programs, mental health support, and job training to help individuals rebuild their lives and reduce recidivism. He also identifies the need for increased staffing and resources, proposing the addition of a county detective to address the growing number and complexity of criminal cases. Reflecting on his career, Brown cites his role during the Michael Burham escape as particularly impactful.

As a liaison among local, state, and federal law enforcement, he coordinated resources and provided critical support, showcasing his commitment to public safety and justice.

“I will work tirelessly to establish partnerships with our schools, churches, and community organizations to proactively address and prevent crime. We must invest in programs that guide our youth, giving them the tools to make better choices and steering them away from the criminal justice system,” Brown said while announcing his candidacy in December.

Warren County District Attorney Rob Greene announced in December 2023 that he would not seek a fourth term and instead shift his focus to advocacy on the issue of marijuana. He is serving out his term, which ends at the end of the year.