Craig Watkins names Dallas District Attorney staffers; Toby Shook to leave office

by PegNews wire

DALLAS — Both will take office on January 1st when District Attorney Elect Craig Watkins is sworn in as DA.

As Mr. Watkins prepares to enter the District Attorney’s office, filling the roles of First Assistant and Trial Bureau Chief are key developments.

First Assistant appointee, Terri Moore, brings more than 14 years of state and federal prosecutorial experience to the Dallas County DA’s office. Ms. Moore is the only woman having ever served as the Deputy Chief of the criminal division in Tarrant County. She supervised prosecutors in four felony courts, the gang unit, and the juvenile section. Most notably, Ms. Moore prosecuted the largest internet pornography case in United States history and targeted identity thieves.

“It is clear there is much work to be done in Dallas County. I am excited about the opportunity to work with Mr. Watkins and am prepared to make the necessary improvements to the District Attorney’s Office to restore safety and justice to Dallas County,” said Ms. Moore.

Trial Bureau Chief Appointee, Kevin Brooks, is currently a Dallas County Defense attorney. Since 1995 he has had extensive experience in major felony trials, particularly Capital Murder Trials. A former Captain in the United States Marine Corps., Mr. Brooks served under District Attorney John Vance, as a prosecutor from 1990 to 1992.

“Having served as a prosecutor in the District Attorney’s Office, I look forward to returning to the DA’s office and becoming an integral part of Mr. Watkins team. I am encouraged by his leadership and vision…The Citizens of Dallas County can rest assured that our number one goal is the safety of our community,” said Mr. Brooks.

“Ms. Moore and Mr. Brooks will be excellent additions to our team at the District Attorney’s office,” said Mr. Watkins. “Their combined record of accomplishment in the courtroom will no doubt restore integrity to the DA’s office and provide a safer Dallas County.”

This announcement comes on the heels of Mr. Watkins meeting with Toby Shook, who informed Mr. Watkins that he has decided to leave the DA’s office to consider other opportunities.

“Mr. Shook has served Dallas County honorably. I hold him in the highest regard and respect his decision to pursue other offers. I wish him well,” said Mr. Watkins.

Source: Dallas County District Attorney's Office