Beckworth runs unopposed for DA seat
Staff Reports

Beckworth

Cherokee County District Attorney Elmer Beckworth has officially filed to seek re-election in 2008.

Beckworth will be a candidate for his third term as district attorney and will be on the ballot in the Democratic Primary in March.

There is no Republican opposition for the seat

Beckworth's experience in the district attorney's office dates back to 1981.

He was first elected district attorney in 2000.

Prior to that time, he served as assistant district attorney for the county for 20 years.

"I stand on my record of service," Beckworth said. "I will continue to work hard to make our county a safer place for every family.

"Over the past eight years, the district attorney's office has successfully prosecuted many cases including a number of very challenging murder cases. I believe that experience is a very important advantage for our county when it comes to prosecuting criminals. "

A 1976 honor graduate of The University of Texas, Beckworth received his law degree from The University of Texas Law School in 1978.

He has extensive trial experience in a wide array of criminal cases including drug abuse, theft, robbery and capital murder.

Beckworth has also been active with the Texas Legislature regarding criminal justice issues.

In 2005, Beckworth initiated Legislation which amended the Texas Constitution to allow state judges more discretion to deny bail to defendants

who violated conditions of bail.

In 2007, Beckworth worked with

other prosecutors to pass workable and tough child molestation legislation.

Beckworth additionally serves on the Board of Directors for the Texas Prison Prosecution Union, the Cherokee County Crisis Center and the Texas District and County Attorneys Association.

Elmer Beckworth is married to Janice Beckworth.

They have two children Erin and Margaret.