Berkshire County's incoming District Attorney Andrea Harrington has started planning her transition.
Harrington named Karen Bell, assistant district attorney in Hampden County, as first assistant DA because of Bell's reputation as a tough and ethical prosecutor.
Harrington also wants to name a deputy district attorney who would oversee prevention programs. She said her model is the office of Northwestern DA David Sullivan.
“There is a bigger emphasis on prevention programs like diversion programs, community outreach, [and a] high risk domestic violence task force,” Harrington said. “And so there’s just a whole other side to that office that isn't just about prosecuting people.”
Harrington was elected after beating the incumbent DA Paul Caccaviello — twice. She said he has been really helpful and she plans to keep the vast majority of the people who now work in the office.
