Proud of the Attorney General's Office changes and priorities
February 9, 2009 -- When I became Kansas' top law enforcement officer, I vowed to build a top-notch professional law office that serves the people of Kansas and focuses on the basics of law enforcement. And we are well on our way.
In just one year, we have more than quadrupled recoveries to the Kansas Medicaid program, returning taxpayer dollars to the state. We refocused our Consumer Protection Division on enforcing consumer protection laws, educating consumers and developing a balanced approach to working with Kansas businesses. We've held violent criminals accountable, achieving tough sentences that will keep them locked up for many years.
The Attorney General's Office is now focused on the right priorities. No longer is it distracted by political agendas. My top priority has been-and will continue to be-the safety of our families and communities.
I have focused on increasing awareness and preventing Internet crime. We developed an educational website within existing resources called NetSafeKansas.com to make kids and parents more secure online. And we reorganized the KBI's Cyber Crime Unit to better address the problem of online crime.
I have taken significant steps to make sure consumers are protected from deceptive business practices. We are vigorously enforcing consumer protections laws, implementing a new mediation program and ensuring Kansas businesses can compete on a level playing field.
To better address the needs of the underserved, my office partnered with other state agencies to raise awareness about elder abuse and financial exploitation. We have cracked down on perpetrators of elder abuse, holding them accountable. We continue to work with law enforcement across the state to ensure that vulnerable Kansans receive the protection they deserve.
I believe the best way to lead is by example. I have taken a hands-on approach to leading the office, participating in many cases, including arguing before the United States Supreme Court and trying a murder case in Osborne County.
I am honored to serve the people of Kansas as attorney general. I am proud of the progress we made in 2008 and I pledge to keep up the hard work. I remain committed to providing more and better services for less taxpayer money. This office will once again be an example to law enforcement offices across the state and the country.