Superior Court, Pos. 7: Okokolo a strong advocate for victims

Published 1:30 am Saturday, November 2, 2019

I support retaining Judge Edirin Okoloko for Superior Court judge.

I am a retired victim advocate who worked with domestic violence and sexual assault victims, survivors and family members for 31 years in Snohomish County. I have had the privilege to work with Edirin Okoloko for many years. I met Edirin when we worked at Dawson Place Child Advocacy Center working with the most vulnerable members of our community, children. I also have worked with Anna (Goykhman) Alexander primarily when she was a defense attorney representing the defendants in these cases.

I was surprised to see letters describing her as an ally of victims. She may have been involved in such things in her spare time, but she has not been known for this in her professional life. She has been a criminal defense lawyer for almost 20 years with an advertised specialty of defending those charged with sex crimes against women and children. Defense interviews were sometimes intense and difficult for victims.

Edirin always treated victims with dignity and respect regardless of their age, making sure they understood what would happen next in the case and answering any questions they had. I worked many trials with Edirin and saw his compassion and commitment to these cases. Edirin has a vast knowledge of the law, very strong professional ethics, and is a much respected member of this community. I encourage you to retain Edirin Okoloko as a Superior Court Judge.

Annette Tupper

Everett