On behalf of the members of the Ethical Society of Police – St. Louis County Chapter, an organization devoted to advocating for our marginalized communities, protecting the rights of the underserved, and standing firm against all forms of discrimination, we submit this letter with steadfast endorsement of Melissa Smith as the next Prosecuting Attorney of St. Louis County. We believe she is a leader with a vision aligned with justice for all, someone who brings nearly 20 years of unshaken dedication and progressive insight to the office.
Throughout her tenure as Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Melissa has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice that extends beyond convictions and sentences. Her support for criminal justice reforms aimed at reducing disparities and lifting the voices of those often unheard speaks volumes. Melissa does not simply talk about fairness; she embodies it, working tirelessly to ensure that our justice system no longer punishes people for their poverty or background but instead treats each case, each life, with dignity and equity.
Melissa’s commitment to transparency has never faltered, and her belief in accountability is both profound and unapologetic. She stands for a future in which those who betray the public trust and misuse their authority are held responsible—where our communities can once again have faith in the very system that was designed to protect them. In a world weary from systemic abuses, Melissa’s promise to hold corrupt officers accountable shines as a beacon of hope.
Her advocacy for reform is not just policy—it is principle. It is an acknowledgment of the pain our communities have endured and a pledge to do better. As a white woman in the role, she is committed to amplifying the voices of Black and Brown communities and shares the vision for a truly just future. Her insight, experience, and commitment to equity are the foundation of a justice system that does not just exist for the people but stands alongside them.
We implore you, County Executive Sam Page, to appoint Melissa Smith as the next Prosecuting Attorney for St. Louis County. Let us move forward with a leader who not only values justice but actively works to make it real for every resident of our community.
ABOUT THE ETHICAL SOCIETY OF POLICE
The Ethical Society of Police (ESOP) was founded in 1972 by African-American officers to address race-based discrimination in the community and with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. In 2018, the ESOP expanded to include membership for civilian and commissioned employees of law enforcement agencies within St. Louis County.
The Ethical Society of Police is an association of police officers and civilians whose mission is to bridge communications between historically marginalized communities and law enforcement. The ESOP works to improve: community/police relations, develop policies and programs to reduce crime, elevate the status of minority civilians and police officers, encourage greater minority employment by law enforcement agencies, and increase professionalism in law enforcement. Membership is open to all races, nationalities, religions, political affiliations, sexual orientations and gender identities. For more information about the Ethical Society of Police, visit www.esopstl.org.
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