Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward and his challenger, former Deputy District Attorney Ralph F. Kaelble, both officially filed papers with the Tulare County Elections Office for the June 3rd election.
Ward has served as Tulare County’s District Attorney since December 16, 2012. Retiring District Attorney Phil Cline recommended him for the position and the Tulare County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved his appointment.
As the district attorney, he assembled an experienced management team to lead prosecutors, criminal investigators and professional staff in the pursuit of justice and the care of victims. Under his leadership, the conviction rate has remained high. He developed the successful Crimes Against Children Unit, he dedicated resources to fighting agricultural crime and elder abuse, and made clear to his staff his determination to protect the most vulnerable of victims.
“Under my watch, we are recruiting experienced attorneys back into the office,” said Ward. “Our morale is high, we have an outstanding team of prosecutors dedicated to public service and the pursuit of justice.”
Kaelble, who announced his campaign for Tulare County District Attorney last July, served as a Tulare County prosecutor for nearly 14 years.
“This election is about protecting the safety of our community. Filing the paperwork furthers my commitment to the citizens of Tulare County and my dedication to justice,” Kaelble commented. “I want to thank all my supporters who are helping make this possible.”
Kaelble has been endorsed by six local law enforcement agencies, including the Tulare County Deputy Sheriff’s Association and the Tulare County Probation Association, as well as the police officer associations of the Visalia, Lindsay, Dinuba and Exeter police departments.