Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
A Warsaw native hopes to return home as the next Kosciusko County prosecuting attorney.
Dan Hampton emphasized his experience and support of law enforcement when he announced Thursday he will run for prosecutor in May's Republican primary.
"My heart will always be in Kosciusko County, and my loyalty will always be with law enforcement," Hampton said, adding that law enforcement offers safety and protection to the community. "My mind will always be that of a prosecuting attorney."
Hampton said his law experience has been only as a prosecutor. His 10 years as a prosecutor is more experience than the two other prosecutor candidates combined: David Kolbe has 3; Charles Waggoner has 2.
"Law enforcement officers deserve respect and must have teamwork with the prosecuting attorney's office," Hampton said. "They [law enforcement] must expect that support. I am fortunate to continue friendships with the officers of Kosciusko County. We are fortunate in the county to have very good law enforcement agencies."
Hampton began his career as a prosecutor in 1988 in Kosciusko County. After his defeat in the 1994 prosecutor's election, Hampton said, "I couldn't stay in Kosciusko County. ... I decided to stay a prosecutor and further my experience." He moved to Allen County and was appointed deputy prosecutor in the juvenile division.
In 1996, Hampton was named chief deputy of A,B,C felonies and supervised caseloads, five deputies, paralegals and investigators. He tried cases for murder, attempted murder, battery, rape and child molesting. He also reviewed cases and decided if charges should be filed.
When asked what changes he will address during his campaign, Hampton said he will question the current administration's effectiveness, idea of speedy justice and teamwork.
Although he has been living in Allen County, Hampton says he has continued his friendships and club memberships in Kosciusko County. He said he has established residence near Warsaw with his father and is looking for a suitable home. His wife Suzanne works with a law firm in Fort Wayne. The couple have no children.
Hampton held his press conference Thursday afternoon in the east foyer of the Kosciusko County Courthouse.
