Press

​By Jason Van Tatenhove

As the nation grapples with political turmoil and division, from the Trump assassination attempt to the contentious Biden administration, it’s easy to feel disillusioned with the state of our democracy. Yet, in the midst of this chaos, Larimer County, Colo., stands out in many ways as a beacon of political sanity and progressive reform, thanks in large part to the innovative leadership of District Attorney Gordon McLaughlin.

 

In a time where trust in the criminal justice system is waning, McLaughlin’s approach provides a refreshing contrast. With a background in both defense and prosecution, McLaughlin brings a unique perspective to his role, emphasizing compassion, community engagement, and creative solutions to long-standing issues. Office of the Larimer County District Attorney Gordon McLaughlin – Courtesy Photo
 

McLaughlin’s journey to becoming DA is deeply rooted in a legacy of public service, influenced by his grandfather, who worked with Mother Teresa. This legacy is evident in McLaughlin’s philosophy: “We’re representing the whole community in every case,” he says, underscoring his belief in a justice system that serves all constituents fairly and thoughtfully.

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One of McLaughlin’s most impactful initiatives is the Adult Diversion Program, which redirects first-time, low-level offenders away from the traditional criminal justice system and towards rehabilitation. “We’re looking at what’s going to put that defendant in the best place to remain or begin to be a law-abiding and contributing member of the community,” McLaughlin explains. This program helps individuals avoid the long-term consequences of a criminal record and addresses the root causes of their behavior.

Amidst the national opioid crisis, McLaughlin has been a proactive advocate, holding dealers accountable while ensuring users receive the treatment they need. His collaboration with the Longview facility, which offers critical behavioral health services, highlights his balanced approach to justice punishing the perpetrators while rehabilitating the victims.

Transparency is a cornerstone of McLaughlin’s administration. He developed a public data dashboard to provide insight into the DA’s office operations, fostering community trust. His handling of high-profile cases, such as those involving severe mental health issues, through a pioneering competency docket further exemplifies his commitment to transparency and humane treatment.

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Read the full article here.