John,

Wake County is growing fast — but our justice system isn’t keeping up. Today, I’m asking the Wake County Board of Commissioners to prioritize public safety in their FY 2026–27 budget, and I need your help to keep Wake County safe.

Wake County’s justice system is being pushed to the breaking point. We have the lowest number of prosecutors per capita in North Carolina, and our prosecutors are handling more than double the caseload of some other counties.

That means:

• Victims have to wait years — not months — for justice.
• Cases are delayed and backlogged.
• Repeat offenders stay out on the streets much longer.

This isn’t just a staffing issue. It’s a public safety issue.

Compare the numbers: Mecklenburg County has 94 prosecutors. Wake County has just 44.

Average caseload:

• Mecklenburg County: ~960 cases per prosecutor
• Wake County: 2,400+ cases per prosecutor

That’s not sustainable.

Mecklenburg County invests more than $6.7 million annually to support its District Attorney’s Office with additional prosecutors and staff. This request represents Wake County’s first step toward joining other counties across North Carolina that supplement their District Attorney’s Offices to meet growing public safety demands. It’s a proven model — and it’s time for Wake County to follow it.

I’m asking the Wake County Board of Commissioners for an initial investment of $603,000 to:

• Add 5 prosecutors and support staff.
• Reduce backlogs.
• Improve efficiency.
• Launch a mental health court in the wake of Ravenscroft Teacher Zoe Welsh’s tragic murder to help reduce repeat offenses.

Wake County is preparing a $2.1 billion budget. Investing in public safety should be a priority.

You can help:

Appreciate your help,

Wiley Nickel