Some local attorneys eyeing District Attorney John Sarsfield’s
job are moving campaign preparations into high gear just weeks
after recall proponents turned in more than 7,000 signatures in an
attempt to oust the prosecutor.
Hollister – Some local attorneys eyeing District Attorney John Sarsfield’s job are moving campaign preparations into high gear just weeks after recall proponents turned in more than 7,000 signatures in an attempt to oust the prosecutor.
Defense attorney Arthur Cantu, who lost to Sarsfield in 2002, has retained a spokesperson for a possible campaign if the recall qualifies for the ballot. And local civil attorney Paul Breen said he’s been approached by a number of residents asking him to throw his hat into the ring.
“I’m trying to stay out of the spotlight,” Breen said. “I’ve been telling people I have not decided to run one way or the other.”
Cantu, however, announced he would run for district attorney even before recall supporters turned in their petitions on June 10. Cantu was out of town Tuesday, but spokesperson Rebecca Jones said his supporters plan to keep their campaign positive.
“We want a good relationship with the district attorney’s office and the citizens of Hollister,” Jones said. “Arthur wants to reduce gang crimes and put criminals in jail. He’s ready to devote the time to make Hollister a safer place.”
Sarsfield, who is dealing with the second recall effort against him a year, has fielded heavy criticism recently from a number of local attorneys and Supervisor Reb Monaco. Several months ago the San Benito County Bar Association passed a vote of no confidence in Sarsfield as district attorney. Monaco also stated last week he’s lost confidence in the prosecutor.
But Sarsfield remains undaunted and has said he’s ready to fight for his job if a recall is put on a ballot.
He’s been quick to point out that while more than 7,000 signatures were delivered to county registrar John Hodges’ office, it is yet to be seen if the group collected the needed 5,296 valid signatures to launch an election.
If enough valid signatures are found, Hodges said the system of balloting would be identical to the one Californians used when voting on the gubernatorial recall in 2003. Voters would vote ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to a recall. A second question on the ballot would ask voters to chose among a list of candidates to replace Sarsfield if the recall passes. The election would likely be held November 8, to coincide with the special election called by Gov. Schwarzenegger.
“We’re still numbering signatures,” Hodges said, cautioning that an actual recall remains up in the air. “I don’t have a feel yet for good signatures versus signatures that don’t qualify.”
Erin Musgrave covers public safety for the Free Lance. Reach her at 637-5566, ext. 336 or [email protected]
