Mike Nerheim: Putting Victims First

It takes time to properly investigate and prosecute crimes. And too often as the process goes on, it is the victims who feel ignored, neglected and forgotten.

As State’s Attorney I will strive to put victims first to ensure they are included and actively involved in building the case, and that they are aware of developments and advised of their rights in properly seeing cases through to the end and feeling that the punishment as much as possible, fits the crime and serves justice.

Under my leadership, putting victim’s first means that when we prosecute the case, the victims will be ready and engaged.  We will make it a priority to do what we can to prevent them from from feeling disconnected, or that the criminal justice system with its inherent delays, has somehow failed them.

Every citizen has the right to fair trial and every victim has the right to see justice served.  We simply can’t have one without the other.

I'd like to share a victims's story provides an example of what I consider the importance of Putting Victims First.

Lori Wallach reached out to the campaign to share her story after she first noticed Mike Nerheim for Lake County State’s Attorney signs around Lake County during the primary. She is an Independent, has never before endorsed a candidate, but felt compelled to share her unique perspective. 

Lori was among those injured in a school carpool line crash caused by a drunk driver in Mundelein more than a dozen years ago. She says if not for the hard work and determination of Mike Nerheim–then a young prosecutor–the case never would have gone to trial, and the victims would never have had the chance to confront the defendant.

See Lori's Story on Video

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