Henry County Attorney Darin R. Stater has issued a public statement following a recent court ruling in the case of Lopez v. Henry County Attorney’s Office (HCAO). While rules of professional conduct limit prosecutors from speaking in detail about court decisions, Stater confirmed that Deputy Lopez has been removed from the Brady/Giglio list maintained by his office as of September 30, 2025, in compliance with the court’s order.
“I respectfully disagree with the ruling, [but] I respect the Court’s order,” Stater stated.
Shifting his comments to the broader role of prosecutors, Stater reflected on his nearly 25 years of service in Henry County. Having begun his career as an assistant prosecutor in 2001, Stater was first elected as Henry County Attorney in 2006 and has since served five terms.
He noted that while the phrase “Back the Blue” often highlights law enforcement, the role of prosecutors is sometimes overlooked. “A County Attorney is the chief law enforcement officer of their respective county,” Stater explained, adding that the nature of prosecutorial duties often creates friction with law enforcement officers and elected officials. “To put it simply, I spend a lot of time saying ‘no,’ and 24 years is plenty of time to build up hard feelings.”
Stater firmly stated he would not engage in personal attacks, online or otherwise, against colleagues, elected officials, or others in the justice system, nor would he be influenced by politics. He cited the American Bar Association Criminal Justice Section’s Standard 3-1.3, which underscores that prosecutors serve the public, not any specific government agency, law enforcement unit, or individual.
“A prosecutor is an administrator of justice, a zealous advocate, and an officer of the court,” Stater emphasized.
In closing, Stater expressed gratitude to Henry County residents for their long-standing support and pledged to continue serving with integrity. “I will continue to serve the public by upholding the Constitution, ensuring due process, and protecting the rule of law.”