Platform: Defense Attorney Shapiro said he would like to improve the felony review system because it is inadequate.

If a case is more accurately reviewed from the beginning, the state can try a person inexpensively and with speed, Shapiro said.

Shapiro said he is concerned about cases charged as felonies being reduced to lesser offenses. He said, “If a charge is serious enough to warrant a felony charge, it should get a felony conviction.”

He said he believes child abusers should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Drunk drivers and illegal drug users should receive treatment so there will be fewer repeat offenders. Shapiro said he will make sure they serve their sentences.

Regular meetings with individuals and groups will be held so Shapiro can hear people’s views regarding the state’s attorney’s office and legal system, Shapiro said. Meetings will ensure his availability to the public, he said.

Background: For more than six years Shapiro said he served as a prosecuting attorney. He said he has the knowledge and experience needed to function as state’s attorney.

Shapiro has been practicing law in DeKalb for nine years. He said he has knowledge in criminal and civil laws.

Shapio has earned a Juris Doctorate degree at Drake University Law School and a bachelor’s degree in history at NIU.