District Attorney challenger announced

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. -- (WWLP) - Hampshire County Probate and family court's David Sullivan has announced his intent to run as a Democratic Challenger to current Republican DA Elizabeth Scheibel.

The position covers Franklin and Hampshire Counties.

Scheibel has been seated for 15 years.

While she hasn't announced her intent to run for re-election, some are happy to see a challenger stepping up.

David Sullivan says that after years of working the court system, he's ready to play a larger role and bring some change to the office of District Attorney.

While he couldn't comment on any specific cases because he currently works in the court system, he says he wants to bring new energy to the table.

"To reconnect with the community, to have more community based programs that address not only fighting crime but preventing crime," said Sullivan.

22News talked to residents about some of the big issues the District Attorney had to face this year, and some they say they'd like to see a challenger in the race.

One polarizing case, that of Jason Vassell, who is accused of stabbing two men who he says broke into his room and harassed him with racial insults.

His defenders have protested at Sheibel's office saying he should be released because he allegedly acted in self defense.

They say they'd like to see some change.

"I think definitely if he is going to be more fair and with this case especially," said Heather Patrick of Milton. "I think its ridiculous they're even considering it he was acting in self defense."

Others site differences on Novembers question two, which passed by 65-percent to decriminalize small amounts of marijuana.

Scheibel's stance was that the laws were appropriate the way they were.

Some who may support Scheibel come election time still say having a challenger is a good thing to make sure the best possible person is in office.

"Its always good to have a challenger its always good to have a new perspective, for people to have a choice and choose," said Pamela Smith of Northampton.

District Attorney Betsy Scheibel declined to make a statement for 22News.

She did say she will make an announcement at the "appropriate time."