Office of Public Affairs
Erica Williams | Director of Public Affairs
Allen Avant | Public Affairs Specialist
The Office of Public Affairs leads communications, public information, and community engagement efforts for the Shelby County District Attorney's Office. Through strategic messaging, public education, and outreach, the office works to promote transparency, strengthen community relationships, and increase public understanding of the justice system.
Our responsibilities include:
Media Relations: Managing media inquiries, press releases, interviews, and public statements.
Strategic Communications: Advising leadership, coordinating public messaging, and managing internal communications.
Digital Media & Storytelling: Overseeing social media, website content, newsletters, videos, and stories highlighting the office's work.
Community Engagement: Planning and coordinating town halls, public forums, educational events, and community outreach initiatives.
Advisory Councils & Partnerships: Managing the DA's Community Advisory and Clergy Councils and strengthening relationships with community stakeholders.
Public Education: Helping residents better understand the criminal justice system, public safety issues, and the role of the District Attorney's Office.
MEDIA REQUEST GUIDELINES
The Shelby County District Attorney's Office receives approximately 20–25 media inquiries daily. We strive to respond promptly while ensuring information is accurate, verified, and legally appropriate.
Response Times & Deadlines
Breaking news and requests with clear deadlines receive priority.
Please specify your deadline and whether it is firm or flexible.
Allow 24–48 hours' notice for interviews when possible.
Non-urgent or late-day requests may be addressed the next business day.
Information & Verification
Some inquiries require coordination with prosecutors, who are often in court during morning hours.
Complex requests may require additional review and verification.
Delayed responses do not necessarily mean a request has been declined.
Records & Information Requests
Court documents and affidavits: Clerk's Office
Arrest details and incident reports: MPD
Charges, case status, and prosecution statements: DA's Office
Public records and data: Submit through the formal request process.
Documents occasionally provided by Public Affairs are a courtesy, not a guaranteed service.
Office Hours & After-Hours Requests
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
After hours: Breaking news and emergencies only.
Reporting on Unanswered Requests
Before reporting that the DA's Office did not respond, we ask that media outlets provide a clear deadline and reasonable time for a response. Requests may still be under review or awaiting verification.
Our Commitment
We are committed to timely, transparent, and accurate communication while respecting legal and ethical obligations.