Over the past several months, I have had the opportunity to visit with and listen to residents throughout Ward 1. One message has been consistent: Our City Court should be more connected to the community it serves. I believe the Ward 1 City Court can play a meaningful role in strengthening public safety, encouraging accountability, creating opportunities for our youth, and building partnerships that lead to better outcomes for our community.
If elected, my vision for a more collaborative approach to justice includes:
- Gun Buyback Partnerships: Support community-based gun buyback initiatives in collaboration with law enforcement and community organizations to reduce unwanted firearms and promote safer neighborhoods.
- Twice-Yearly Expungement Clinics: Partner with legal professionals, justice system stakeholders, and community organizations to help eligible individuals navigate the expungement process, reducing barriers to employment, economic opportunity, and a fresh start.
- Youth & Teen Court Partnerships: Work with community stakeholders and justice partners to explore establishing a Teen Court for appropriate low-level juvenile offenses, emphasizing positive accountability, intervention, mentorship, and opportunities for young people to make better choices.
- Warrant & Case Resolution Days: Collaborate with appropriate justice partners to create designated opportunities for individuals with eligible outstanding warrants, traffic violations, and nonviolent matters to address unresolved cases and move forward responsibly.
My vision is simple: Justice should uphold the law, protect our community, promote accountability, and create opportunities for positive change. These initiatives will require collaboration, cooperation, and a shared commitment to making Ward 1 stronger and safer. If you believe, as I do, that Partnership, Justice, and Community can work together to improve public safety and strengthen confidence in our justice system, I humbly ask for your support and your vote.
EARLY VOTING: OCTOBER 20–27, 2026
“We can be serious about upholding the law, protecting public safety, and investing in our community—all at the same time.”
Cloyd Benjamin, Jr.
Candidate for Ward 1 City Court Judge