Albany County District Attorney – Albany, NY

Prosecuting Crime and Protecting the Community

The Albany County District Attorney’s Office, headquartered at the Albany County Judicial Center on Lodge Street, is the chief law enforcement agency responsible for the prosecution of all criminal offenses within Albany County. Led by District Attorney Lee Kindlon, the office represents the People of the State of New York in criminal proceedings, working tirelessly to ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law. The DA’s jurisdiction encompasses the cities of Albany, Cohoes, and Watervliet, as well as numerous towns and villages. The office’s mission extends beyond merely securing convictions; it focuses on delivering justice for victims, rehabilitating offenders where appropriate, and engaging with the community to prevent crime before it occurs. The staff of Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs), investigators, and victim advocates handle a heavy caseload, ranging from low-level misdemeanors in local courts to violent felonies and complex financial crimes in the County and Supreme Courts.

Specialized Bureaus and Units

To effectively manage the diverse range of criminal activity, the District Attorney’s Office is organized into specialized bureaus. The Major Offense Bureau handles the most serious violent crimes, including homicides, assaults, and robberies, ensuring that dangerous offenders are held accountable. The Special Victims Unit (SVU) is dedicated to the sensitive prosecution of crimes involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse, providing specialized support to vulnerable survivors. The Financial Crimes Unit investigates white-collar offenses such as embezzlement, fraud, and identity theft, while the Street Crimes Unit focuses on dismantling drug trafficking networks and gang activity. Additionally, the Vehicular Crimes Unit prosecutes DWI/DWAI offenses and vehicular homicides, working to keep the county’s roads safe. This specialized approach allows ADAs to develop expertise and achieve better outcomes in the courtroom.

• Major Offense Bureau: Prosecution of homicides and violent felonies.
• Special Victims Unit: Handling domestic violence and sexual assault cases.
• Street Crimes Unit: Targeting illegal narcotics and gang violence.
• Financial Crimes: Investigating fraud, theft, and public corruption.

Victim Services and Community Justice

A cornerstone of the District Attorney’s Office is its commitment to victims of crime. The Crime Victims Unit provides comprehensive assistance to those who have been harmed, guiding them through the often confusing criminal justice process. Advocates help victims understand their rights, obtain orders of protection, and access compensation for medical expenses or counseling. They also provide accompaniment to court proceedings, ensuring that victims have a supportive presence by their side. Recognizing that incarceration is not always the answer, the office also champions alternative justice initiatives. The Clean Slate program and various diversion courts offer non-violent offenders a second chance through rehabilitation and community service, aiming to reduce recidivism and address the root causes of criminal behavior.

Administration and Public Outreach

The DA’s office is located on the 4th floor of the Albany County Judicial Center, a secure facility that also houses the county courts. The administration prioritizes transparency and accessibility, maintaining an active presence in the community through town halls and educational programs. The ‘Words to Deeds’ initiative and other outreach efforts seek to foster a collaborative relationship between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve. For attorneys and the public, the office provides clear guidelines on traffic ticket reductions and the handling of various legal matters. Whether prosecuting high-profile cases or helping a victim find their voice, the Albany County District Attorney’s Office stands as a pillar of justice in the Capital Region.