On Tuesday, at the Laborer's Union Hall in Rock Island, she announced her campaign to a crowd of supporters, including other elected officials and community leaders.
Villarreal says since 2020, she’s worked through 5,000 backlogged cases resulting from the COVID pandemic, and met a campaign goal to digitize case files and evidence.
"It took some persuasion, some collaboration, and a lot of patience, but we did it," she said. "We have been paperless for two years, digitizing thousands of case files, and many, many terabytes of digital evidence. We have thrown out paper, and we have actually saved the tax payers over 20,000 dollars each year."
She also says her office helped lower crime rates in the county, and thanked local law enforcement, including Sheriff Darren Hart, who was present.
"We are so lucky to have such dedicated, and hardworking officers. It has been a really difficult time for them, they receive little credit, but yet, all the criticism."
She says, if reelected, she will continue investing in efforts to prevent crime before it happens, while targeting violent crime and repeat offenders.
"Our justice system must reflect the diversity and richness of our community, it must ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has an equal shot at justice," she said.
"We will continue to champion restorative justice, working with our community leaders, legal experts, and law enforcement, to find collaborative solutions."
She also wants to prioritize victims’ rights, and better communication with the community.
