SPENCER MERRIWEATHER | DURATION: 56 MINUTES
Airdate: April 24, 2018
Spencer Merriweather III is the Mecklenburg County District Attorney, leading an office of over 200 attorneys and staff who prosecute state felonies and misdemeanor charges. He served as an Assistant District Attorney in the felony division in Mecklenburg County for more than a decade. He previously led the District Attorney’s Office's Habitual Felon Prosecution Team and has prosecuted a variety of crimes ranging from homicide, robbery and sexual assault. He has been an active member of the Mecklenburg County Bar is the incoming director of the Mecklenburg Bar Foundation Board. He earned a B.A. in Politics with certificates in American and African American studies from Princeton University and J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
This episode is perfect for anyone interested in criminal justice reform, the emotional burdens of prosecuting crimes, serving as the voice of victims, and finding solace in faith.
IN THIS EPISODE
Spencer shares what he has learned as Mecklenburg County District Attorney in his first five months on the job.
He explains what he means by the phrase '21st century prosecutor' and what he thinks is the underlying causes of crime.
He discusses bias in prosecutorial discretion and what he tries to put at the center of all of his decisions.
Spencer answers whether he has ever regretted prosecuting someone and how he feels when someone he has prosecuted is found guilty and sentenced.
He describes a moment when he thought the job would break him.
Spencer reflects on his time as student body president at Princeton University, being a Congressional Aide during 9/11 and what drew him to the D.A.'s office in Charlotte.
He answers whether he has been managing his resume to run for public office and whether he has ever marched for civil rights or protested in the streets.
Spencer shares how his faith informs his work and what he wants his life to be about.
plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: What Prosecutors Do
To Learn More About Spencer
Questions
What struck you about Spencer's comments?
What makes you good at what you do?
What is at the center of your decision-making?
What would make criminal justice more just?
We invite your posts on our Facebook page.
This episode is sponsored by Blumenthal Performing Arts, celebrating its 25th year presenting the best in performing arts.
Further support is provided by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, one of America’s leading urban public libraries, delivering exceptional services and programs, with a mission to improve lives and build a stronger community.
And by the Arts & Science Council, Charlotte-Mecklenburg's resource hub and lead advocate for the regional cultural community, providing Culture for All.
Additional support is provided by the UNC College of Arts + Architecture, celebrating a decade of creative education in the arts and design.
