Essex DA Blodgett Honored As Distinguished Chief Prosecutor

ARLINGTON, VA — Essex County District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett was honored for his outstanding leadership in prosecution over the past year during the recent National District Attorneys Association meeting in Virginia.

Each year, NDAA recognizes prosecutors who have distinguished themselves among their peers as they seek justice, hold offenders accountable, and protect the rights of victims.

The NDAA said Blodgett's nomination form praised his "innovative and pragmatic approach to the office" and his established programs and partnerships aimed at keeping people out of the criminal justice system and providing services for first-time offenders. He was also credited with being an animal rights advocate and cited for his work to curtail rampant insurance in Lynn and Lawrence.

"It is humbling to receive recognition from my peers for doing the work that I love," Blodgett said. "This award reflects on my team — a tremendous group of dedicated public servants — who fight for justice, seek to hold the guilty accountable, exonerate the innocent and, most importantly, ensure that the crime victim is heard. It has truly been an honor to work alongside these fine professionals."

The five-term DA is not seeking re-election this fall.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)