Anne Arundel County State's Attorney Choose 1
DUTIES: The State’s Attorney's office serves as the county's chief law enforcement agency, prosecuting all criminal cases. The State's Attorney heads a team of prosecutors, victim advocates, case managers, investigators and other administrative staff. In addition to seeking justice in criminal cases, the State's Attorney's office provides training to lawyers, promotes fairness and ensures access to the criminal justice system, fosters professional relations with judges and attorneys, educates the public about criminal justice issues, and seeks to further the efficient use of criminal justice resources.SALARY: $243,118 (starting Jan. 2027); increases 3% each year.TERM: Four years, no term limit.HOW ELECTED: Elected countywide.
Biographical Information
Campaign Website
http://AnneArundelAnne.com
Campaign Phone
4435698119
Campaign Email
annecoltleitess@gmail.com
Campaign Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/AnneColtLeitess
Campaign Instagram
annecoltleitess
Campaign Mailing Address
1407 Travers Court
Gambrills, MD 21054
Gambrills, MD 21054
Qualifications: Why are you running for State's Attorney and what professional background and experience prepare you for this role?
For 37 years, I've prosecuted rapists, murderers, and child abusers — championing those who cannot speak for themselves. Leading this 155-person $18 million office for a decade, I've delivered results: in budget every year, expanding victim services, and building a diverse, highly trained team committed to seeking justice, prosecuting offenders vigorously and fairly, and upholding the law. I have never shied away from tough cases when seeking justice for victims of crime.
Administration: What are your goals and priorities for the State's Attorney's Office?
My priority is expanding victim services and crime prevention programs. In our community outreach presentations, we teach Teens and Seniors how to avoid exploitation. I've won $5 million in grants, funding innovative programs like the Child Survivors Justice Program, a Gun Violence Prosecutor, and bilingual advocates. I've hired a social worker who partners with schools to intervene early with at-risk youth — keeping kids out of the criminal justice system.
Criminal Justice Policy: What is your position on restorative justice practices and alternatives to prosecution and why?
I strongly support restorative justice. I provide staff for specialty courts for drug treatment, mental health, and Veterans. I provide a mediation center for resolution of disputes and various diversion programs to keep low-level offenders out of jail and free of criminal records. We prioritize treatment and restitution for non-violent offenders, support Teen Court where peers hold students accountable, and use electronic monitoring as a jail alternative when appropriate.
Civil Liberties: What steps will you take to ensure consistent protection of constitutional rights, due process, and fairness in the application of justice in the County?
I am the only candidate speaking out against ICE activity threatening due process for immigrants and citizens alike. My team reviews all felony arrests and body-worn camera footage which verifies lawful police conduct. All complaints are screened for legal soundness before proceeding. Prosecutors are ministers of justice, obligated to pursue only cases that are fair and just. My statement on public safety, accountability, and the rule of law regarding immigration enforcement: aacounty.org/sao
Other: What else would you like voters to know about you?
I am a lifelong Democrat committed to protecting the rights of everyone who lives, works, or visits our county — regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, or immigration status. In these chaotic times, we need leadership unafraid to speak up and hold accountable those who threaten our safety and violate our rights. I am trusted and endorsed by a dozen local and state leaders. As your State's Attorney for nearly ten years, I have led the office with integrity and commitment to our community.