Portsmouth Commonwealth’s Attorney Stephanie Morales is running for a third full term in office, facing significant challenges from two prominent local attorneys. Nathan Chapman, 55, and Steve Heretick, 65, are both campaigning as independents, asserting that Morales’s office has made numerous critical mistakes during her tenure.
Morales, a 41-year-old Democratic candidate, has faced scrutiny over several high-profile cases that were dismissed due to alleged errors by her office. These include serious charges, such as murder, where judges found that prosecutors failed to meet essential procedural requirements. One notable case was dismissed last year when a judge ruled that the defendant’s right to a speedy trial had been violated. Additionally, all charges against a man accused of a quadruple homicide at a Portsmouth boarding house were dropped after prosecutors were deemed to have insufficient evidence.
In another instance, multiple charges of child abuse, neglect, and cruelty against a daycare operator were dismissed when a judge determined that prosecutors had not adequately provided required information to the defense. Currently, Morales’s office operates with about half the number of prosecutors it is funded to employ, and two have faced multiple suspensions of their law licenses.
Chapman highlighted the staffing crisis, stating, “The staffing issue is a very serious problem. She can’t get people to work there because the office’s reputation is so bad.” He argued that the remaining staff are overburdened, leading to further mistakes. Morales acknowledged the challenges of staffing, noting that recruitment and retention efforts are ongoing, including training and partnerships with law schools.
While Morales pointed out that other commonwealth’s attorney offices in the Hampton Roads area are fully staffed, she emphasized her commitment to improving internal systems and training. In an email, she stated, “Continuous improvement is essential. We are consistently working to strengthen internal systems, enhance training, and expand the tools available to our attorneys and staff.”
Heretick criticized the errors made under Morales’s leadership, calling them inexcusable. He stated, “No other commonwealth’s attorney’s office in the state is seeing these kinds of dismissals. The fact that they happen at all, much less chronically, is a testament to how she’s failing to run her office.”
Morales defended her staff’s efforts, expressing pride in their dedication. “Prosecutors must handle complex cases with precision, and while outcomes may vary, we will never compromise our duty to pursue justice ethically and responsibly,” she said.
In terms of endorsements, Chapman has the backing of local law enforcement groups, including the Fraternal Order of Police and the Police Benevolent Association. Heretick has garnered support from several local politicians, while Morales has received endorsements from high-profile state leaders, including Virginia House Speaker Don Scott and Sens. Louise Lucas and Bobby Scott.
Financially, Morales leads in campaign contributions, having raised over $97,000 this year, according to the Virginia Public Access Project. Heretick follows closely with $87,000, while Chapman has raised $21,000.
Both challengers emphasize the need to fully staff the office and to rebuild relationships with law enforcement and the community. Heretick pointed out the broader implications of the current situation, stating, “Portsmouth has a reputation as a dangerous city, and we’ve got to address that. It keeps us from being a full economic partner in Hampton Roads.”
Chapman intends to focus on seizing assets from convicted criminals and addressing juvenile violence, which he identified as a significant issue in Portsmouth. He remarked, “These are all things that are being done by other prosecutors’ offices that aren’t being done here.”
If re-elected, Morales has pledged to enhance crime prevention programs, improve technological support for case management, and strengthen victim support services. She believes her record and commitment to civil rights and public safety position her as the right choice for voters.
As the election approaches, the contest for Portsmouth Commonwealth’s Attorney highlights critical issues within the local justice system and the differing visions each candidate brings to the office.
