BENTONVILLE — Rogers attorney Kimberly Weber wants to become prosecutor for Benton County.
Weber, 45, filed for the office Monday. The nonpartisan election is May 20. Nathan Smith, deputy prosecutor, is Weber's opponent.
Profile
Kimberly R. Weber
Born: Feb. 22, 1969
Residency: Rogers
Family: One son
Employment: Attorney at Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure and Thompson.
Education: Law degree from the University of Arkansas, 1994; Bachelor of Arts from Truman State (Mo.) University, 1991.
Military Experience: None
Political Experience: None
Van Stone, Benton County's prosecutor, will not seek a third term.
Weber said she believes now is the right time in her life to serve as prosecutor. She's an attorney with Matthews, Campbell, Rhoads, McClure and Thompson in Rogers.
"A former judge called me a bulldog for the way I fought for my clients," Weber said Tuesday. "I will bring that same vigor and effort to the Prosecuting Attorney's Office that I have when representing my clients."
Weber, who has worked as a prosecutor, said that position is still a part of her.
"I enjoy and love my firm and the people are incredible," Weber said. "I believe I can be a much more effective prosecutor."
Weber is a supporter of drug courts and believes more alternative sentencing could be used for youthful and first-time offenders.
"I am supporting Kim because she's committed to justice for all in our criminal system," said David Matthews, a Rogers attorney. "She has worked in our firm since 2008. During that time I have seen her devotion to her clients, but also her drive to be certain that justice was served."
Weber is an experienced criminal lawyer who has served as a deputy U.S. attorney, Matthews said.
"I believe she has the maturity, experience and commitment to continue and even improve upon the excellent work that the people have come to expect from our prosecuting attorney's office," Matthews said. "Knowing how to investigate allegations of crime, determine what charges, if any, to be filed, and then shepherding the case through both the trial and appellate level are the hallmarks of a good public servant in the prosecutor's role. I believe Kim has what it takes to do all those things well."
Mary Ann Gunn, a former Washington County circuit judge, said she and Michael Mashburn, a retired circuit judge, will be co-campaign coordinators for Weber.
"I'm supporting her because of her strong work ethic and many accomplishments," Gunn said of Weber. "She's an accomplished prosecutor as well as a fearless trial attorney."
Weber worked as a federal prosecutor from 2003 to 2007, Gunn said. Weber also has been a deputy prosecutor for Washington and Carroll counties, Gunn said.
"Her home is Benton County and she is dedicated to Benton County," Gunn said. "I think she will serve the people of Benton County with compassion, integrity and skill."
Weber is a member of the Arkansas Bar Association and the State Bar of Texas.
NW News on 03/05/2014