Letter to the Editor: Bobi James is best candidate to fill vacancy in Hancock County State’s Attorney’s office

The membership of the Sand Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 428 is pleased to announce its endorsement and support for Bobi James to be appointed to fill the upcoming Hancock County State’s Attorney vacancy. 

Bobi has served as assistant state’s attorney in Hancock County since July 2018. Hancock County has benefited greatly from having Bobi at the state’s attorney’s office. She has handled a variety of cases in her time as assistant state’s attorney. What stands out is her work ethic, commitment to justice and, most of all, her caring and compassion. 

During the last four years, we have watched her work tirelessly on juvenile cases helping children and families overcome obstacles and improving their lives. Bobi has shown a commitment to all of us in Hancock County by routinely coming in early and staying late to ensure she does everything she can on each case she has handled. 

Those of us in law enforcement have relied on Bobi for assistance and advice routinely. Often this has come in the middle of the night or well into the early morning hours. Bobi is always available to local law enforcement and always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that law enforcement has what we need to do our jobs well. 

Bobi’s experience dealing with drug-related offenses is a huge asset to our county. She has served admirably with Hancock County Drug Court. She has shown understanding and compassion as well as a willingness to hold people accountable for their choices and actions. This is a great thing for the entire community. 

Throughout the years, we have also watched Bobi work closely with victims and the victim witness coordinator program. Bobi understands what victims go through because she has worked closely with many. She has what it takes to fight for victims in Hancock County.  

Bobi James is the best candidate to fill this vacancy. The working relationship with her, as well as her commitment to the citizens of Hancock County, is second to none. She and her family are long-time residents and are dedicated and active in our communities. 

I highly recommend her appointment to fill this vacancy, as well as her candidacy in 2024. Hancock County is a better place having Bobi James standing up for justice and for families. 

Josh Smith
Hancock County Sheriff
Sand Valley Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 428
Dallas City, Illinois