Deanna Crull

You are running against Andrew Biviano as District Court Judge; what is an issue that you and he differ on concerning this position?

I only know of my opponent’s partisan political background. I’m not running for political reasons, but because my experience in this court makes me the best person for the job and I want to give back to my community. I have served in District Court as a pro tem judge for the last 3 ½ years presiding over civil and criminal matters. I’m the Court Commissioner for Airway Heights. I’m a pro tem judge for the Kalispel Tribe. My performance and experience are why I have the endorsement of every sitting District Court judge, and numerous other judges.

Andrew said that “I have tackled as many big and difficult problems as I can find, including systemic flaws in our mental health system.” Do you believe mental health advocacy plays a role in the local criminal justice system? If so, how does your position connect with that?

Yes, I do. If we want to reduce recidivism, we need to address the underlying problem, not just the symptoms of undiagnosed and untreated mental health problems. Without treatment an individual may self-medicate and engage in criminal behavior.

As an attorney, I’ve used mental health court for clients. I know they work. For the last 2 years as a court commissioner, I’ve volunteered for the Judicial Therapeutic Court Committee (DMCJA). As judge, I will make sure best practices continue, and that there is always a balance between encouragement and accountability. You cannot have a successful program unless you have both.