By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer
With the swearing in of Jill Lee as the new Shelby County District Attorney on Monday, Oct. 27, it made for a couple of noteworthy accomplishments for Shelby County.
First off, it marked the first time in 21 years since the swearing in of a new district attorney and secondly, but most importantly, it marked the first time a female has been sworn in as the district attorney of Shelby County.
The reason it is a first isn’t because Shelby County didn’t want a woman taking over as a head district attorney, it instead happened because of the great leadership that came before Lee took over. And now it is her time to shine.
Lee is taking over the responsibilities of Robby Owens, who retired as district attorney last month. Lee had previously served as Owens chief assistant district attorney for more than 10 years before being appointed by Gov. Robert Bentley on Sept. 12.
When talking with Lee, I can tell she has a passion for what she does and she wants what’s best for Shelby County. She gives credit where it’s due by thanking all the people in her workplace who surround her each day, and regularly talks about how she wouldn’t be successful without their help.
When dealing with families who have been hurt by the actions of others, Lee doesn’t just see them as people or ‘cases,’ but instead treats them as victims and cares for them.
“What I like doing with what I do is working with the victims, because they are at their lowest point, and I feel like it’s a calling for me,” said Lee. “The people of Shelby County and the people I work with here are very reasonable and good people.”
I think we should all agree that no matter your gender, skin color, race or whatever the case might be, a person should be appointed a leader because of their great qualities and leadership skills, or in this case, making sure justice is served and finding the truth.
With that said, good luck Jill Lee, and I look forward to seeing you lead Shelby County.