To the editor:
I had an impromptu discussion about the district attorney’s race with a few people one evening in a local restaurant. One gentleman said he was glad he didn’t have a “horse in that race.” I suggested that you do if you have children. You do if you have elderly parents. You do if you have a wife or girlfriend. You do if you own property or a business. Children are exposed to abuse and illegal drugs. Seniors are too often subjected to fraud, and women to harassment, assault and abuse. Without qualified, experienced people to protect them and to prosecute those who commit crimes against them, we will all live in a much more dangerous community. And the consequence of that will be the diminishment in value of one of our largest investments — our homes and businesses and a diminishment of the quality of our lives.
I have known Paul Caccaviello for many years. He is a kind, thoughtful person and a good family man. He is an intelligent and diligent public prosecutor who has earned the essential respect of the law enforcement community. I had the opportunity as mayor to see Paul Caccaviello in action coordinating the preparation of the worst of criminal cases, prosecuting those who sold drugs to our children, robbed senior citizens, abused women and committed murder. Paul is one of the most accomplished prosecutors in New England, an accomplishment achieved over three decades of committed public service. We have been blessed to have Paul as an assistant DA and now as district attorney, the chief law enforcement officer of the county. Gov. Baker interviewed a number of people to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of David Capeless. The governor could have chosen someone of his own political party. He could have chosen a number of local politicians. Thankfully, the governor recognized Paul’s talent and the superior service he has given the citizens of Berkshire County. Voters should recognize it, as well.
God forbid your family is the victim of an awful crime — if they are, wouldn’t you want an experienced prosecutor fighting for them? I am confident that the thoughtful people of Berkshire County will compare qualifications and then write in Paul Caccaviello’s name in the DA’s section of the ballot on Election Day. The quality of our lives and the safety of our loved ones depend on it.
Dan Bianchi
Pittsfield
The writer is the former Republican mayor of Pittsfield.