Why are you running for office?
I have a heart for Hancock County, as this is where I was born, raised my family and remained active in our community. I’ve been elected to the Greenfield City Council, involved in church, athletics and numerous groups and organizations in Hancock County. The status quo will no longer do. It’s time for a fresh new vision for the courts. As judge, I will listen intently and render decisions based upon the written law. Having a vested interest in our community, I will continue to keep our community safe and healthy, as I want future generations to call Hancock County home.
What makes you a qualified candidate for the position?
Hancock County has been my home the past 27 years, even during my time at Indiana University School of Law in Indianapolis. I began my law practice in Hancock County. For more than 20 years, I have practiced in all areas of law over which the Hancock Circuit Court Judge presides and more. There have been thousands of contested hearings, bench trials in civil and criminal cases in which I have taken part, and with jury trial experience ranging from OWI to high-level felonies, I have the experience to preside over any case that would come before me.
What are your top three goals for the position?
Increasing access to a variety of treatment programs. Supporting mental health/veterans treatment court options. Expanding participation in the drug court program.
Since 1990, I have lived, served and worked in this community, and during that time, I have seen the effects of drug abuse, anxiety, depression and social issues that have come to divide our society. I believe one needs to be held responsible for the choices they make. However, I also believe we need to take steps toward providing universal access to treatment and prevention programs that assist those within the legal system to turn toward a better life.
What specialty courts do you think are needed to serve Hancock County offenders?
Drug Court should remain, and participation should be expanded. We need to create a Mental Health Court with a Veterans Treatment Program to provide specific counseling to be sure our community is safe while providing treatment to make a positive impact on those with mental health issues and to improve their lives so they remain valued members of our community. A Veterans Treatment Program should be created to assist veterans, with programs and treatment specifically designed for veterans, with their unique situations, to help them to stay out of trouble with the law and get the specialized assistance they need.
Are bail amounts in Hancock County set fairly, and would you consider modifications to alleviate overcrowding in the county jail?
The bond schedule in place was set by judges Marshall, Snow and Culver. Each judge has the right to determine the bond set for each case and if a bond should be lowered or not. For first-offender, low-level crimes, the court may consider applying a lower bond. It is most important for the court to listen intently to the state and defense and apply the rule of law regarding bonds to ensure the defendant’s attendance at court but not to unduly restrict a person who doesn’t present a substantial risk of flight or danger to themselves or others.
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Name: D.J. Davis
Age: 45
Party: Republican
Office sought: Hancock Circuit Court Judge
Occupation: Attorney, Smith Davis Law in Greenfield
Political experience: Greenfield City councilman 2004- 2011
Family: Wife Heather, two children
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