Susan Hawk's First Town Hall Meeting Since Return To Work

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DALLAS (CBS11) - Mental health and marijuana were just some of the issue Dallas County District Attorney Susan Hawk discussed during her first major public appearance on Monday.
Hawk, who recently took a leave of absence to deal with depression, spoke to residents Monday night at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Downtown Dallas.

"There's been some speculation and media attention regarding our office, how it's been running over the past ten months. So I'd like to put that speculation to rest tonight," said Hawk to the crowd.

Those in attendance got a chance to question Hawk about anything other than specific cases.
"She has a responsibility to this city and when I feel like she's not being responsible and people voted her in, I got a right to say something," said Olinka Green, who questioned Hawk on Monday.

Green, like others inside the historic African American church, is concerned about who is going to jail. One speaker mentioned non-violence offenders who are sent to jail, specifically those who are caught with marijuana.

"In terms of sign and release, that is something we are discussing we leaders in law enforcement. It's on our radar," said Hawk.

The DA referenced a program that would allow officers to give out citations for possession of small amounts rather than jail time.

The town hall also took a personal turn.

"I was blessed with the opportunity to treat my illness," said Hawk.

Hawk announced a mental health diversion court. It would be a program to serve those diagnosed with mental illness with "medical help" rather than prison sentences.

Hawk did not make herself available for one-on-one interviews after the town hall. She did tell the crowd she plans on having more town halls on a monthly basis.

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